Democracy Here and Now: The Exemplary Case of Spain

15M was a movement in Spain against austerity measures that began on May 15, 2011. It became a mode of being with transformative, democratizing potential. Pablo Ouziel's book Democracy Here and Now offers an analysis of 15M, revealing six types of intersubjective, joining hands relationships that the movement has brought into being and continues to carry on in creative ways. It shows how the movement's way of being and temporality persists in Spain following the square occupations, while 15M citizens continue to learn and move forward in less perceptible ways.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: University of Toronto Press

In Spain, a movement against austerity measures began on May 15, 2011, in response to the threat posed by far-right populism and authoritarianism. This movement, known as 15M, emerged as a virtuous and democratic response to the prevailing circumstances. It transcended being merely a social movement and became a way of being that held the potential for transformative and democratizing effects.

In his book "Democracy Here and Now," Pablo Ouziel delves into the intricacies of 15M. During the movement and the subsequent encampments, Ouziel extensively traveled, engaging in conversations with participants and documenting his interactions. This unique participatory research approach allows him to present an original analysis of 15M.

Through his research, Ouziel identifies six distinct types of intersubjective, joining hands relationships that 15M has fostered and continues to nurture in innovative ways. The book showcases how the movement's way of being and temporality persist in Spain even after the square occupations, as 15M citizens continue to learn and evolve in less visible manners.

"Democracy Here and Now" sheds light on a deeply relational, intersectional, and eco-social mode of democracy. It highlights the exemplary practices of 15M in democratization, serving as a model for similar grassroots movements worldwide. By broadening our understanding of what it means to be democratic in the present moment, the book contributes to a more inclusive and democratic society.

Weight: 486g
Dimension: 237 x 160 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781487543174