Maurice Glasman argues that the migrant crisis symbolizes the collapse of the international rules-based order, which placed sovereignty in courts and lawyers rather than in politics and parliaments. This system—built on human rights treaties and the free movement of people, goods, and capital—eroded democratic decision-making and left governments unable to respond to public concerns about immigration and economic insecurity.
According to Glasman, Brexit marked the beginning of a new era where sovereignty and democracy reclaimed primacy. That revolt continues globally, culminating in Donald Trump’s return to power in 2024. For Britain, the demand to “Stop the boats” has become a defining issue, crystallizing decades of working-class frustration with elites and ineffective governments.
He calls on Labour to choose whether it will defend the old order of international legalism or embrace the restoration of sovereignty, borders, and democratic authority. Glasman draws on Labour’s history—particularly Attlee and Bevin’s refusal to give foreign courts jurisdiction over British law—as a model for today.
The path forward, he argues, is a politics of national sovereignty: strong borders, empowered parliament, decisive leadership, and bilateral partnerships instead of multilateral treaties. The future, Glasman insists, will be shaped by elected leaders acting with authority, not by human rights lawyers.