Hyperpolitics Left Organising: Building Future Plural 2026

Hyperpolitics and the left's need to organise are central to modern political strategy, as trade unionist Mark Bergfeld argues in response to Anton Jäger's book. The era of hyperpolitics demands new approaches to building power beyond traditional meetings and membership drives.

The Challenge of Hyperpolitics for the Left

Hyperpolitics refers to politics practiced after the destruction of traditional institutions that once structured political life. People no longer attend union meetings, church services, or volunteer in community roles. Instead, they work long hours or stay digitally connected, often from remote locations like beach vacations.

This shift creates a paradox: while political intensity is high, organizational capacity is weak. Jäger's premise is correct—intensity without organisation rarely produces power. But the left cannot simply mourn the loss of Christian democracy or pillarized societies.

Why Traditional Organising Fails

Trade unions and political parties face declining participation because they rely on outdated models. People may not show up to a hall, but they will watch a TikTok video, follow an Instagram influencer, or stream a podcast. The left must meet people where they are, using digital tools and creative campaigns.

Mark Bergfeld's experience co-producing a podcast on cleaners' lives and running an influencer campaign with hairdressers illustrates this shift. These methods reach audiences that traditional meetings cannot.

Building Plural Institutions for the Future

The task is not to resurrect a golden age of pillarization but to build plural institutions that counter corporate monopolies. Plural institutions are diverse, inclusive organizations that represent various interests and identities, fostering democratic participation.

In Brussels, Bergfeld met a trade union leader whose father was a miner. That leader joined a Christian union, stayed in socialist health insurance, and briefly attended a Christian Democrat meeting—but never returned. This anecdote shows the limits of rigid, identity-based structures.

Comparative Data: Traditional vs. Modern Organising

Key Takeaways for the Left

• Hyperpolitics requires new organising methods beyond physical meetings.
• Digital platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and podcasts are essential for reaching working people.
• Plural institutions should be future-oriented, not nostalgic.
• Intensity must be matched with structure to generate lasting power.
• Corporate power must be countered by diverse, inclusive organisations.

Practical Steps for Trade Unions and Activists

First, invest in digital infrastructure: podcasts, social media, and online communities. Second, create hybrid events that combine online and offline participation. Third, build coalitions across different sectors and identities to strengthen collective bargaining.

Finally, embrace experimentation. Not every campaign will succeed, but learning from failures is part of building resilient institutions. The left must draw inspiration from the future, not the past.

FAQ