by Heather Stroud

24 Oct 2026

In a world where truth is subtly distorted or deliberately changed into outright lies for political expediency, having a platform where honest analysis and reporting are freely available to a global readership is more important than ever. Countercurrents provides such a platform. It is one that allows writers to share relevant and critical information that the mainstream media would reject.

As I look back over several years of writing articles, what stands out for me is that, as an unknown writer with just a few random pieces having been previously published by small media outlets that have since disappeared, Countercurrents not only gave me a platform but provided an increased confidence in my writing and analysis. It wasn’t necessary for me to stand in front of a media board and argue that I could write, or that I would limit my political ideas to fit into their narrow editorial content. Countercurrents isn’t like that. No one censors my writing, even though what I write is often highly critical of politicians and the establishment.

My articles for Countercurrents include pieces examining the threat of fracking in Ryedale, North Yorkshire, where I detailed how a local resistance movement forced the industry to abandon its plans. However, most of my submissions focus on events in Palestine and Lebanon. Countercurrents published all of these pieces using layouts and photographs that complemented the article.

When writing about events in West Asia, I’m consistently critical of Zionist Israel and its cabal of Western supporters, especially UK Government. In doing so, I’m cognisant that these entities represent a powerful body, particularly when it comes to censoring content they dislike. However, Binu, the editor for Countercurrents, seems to unfailingly judge each article on its merit. In doing so, demonstrates a level of courage and integrity rarely, if ever, seen in mainstream publications.

Concurrents covers a broad range of topics on a global scale. What remains consistent across its publications is that the articles are well-written, offer robust arguments, and provide deeply considered, honest reflections on truth, justice, and the environment.

While praise for Binu is entirely worthy, and this celebration of Countercurrents Silver Jubilee is well-deserved, Binu is asking a crucial question: one we should perhaps all be asking given the dangerous state of our world: “Where to next?”

Several thoughts come to mind. In the UK, we have an alternative news platform that began as a printed newspaper and later evolved into a tri-weekly news broadcasting platform. In recent years, they have introduced an annual weekend gathering where contributors and listeners meet at a fixed location. This event features keynote speakers and small-group discussions on chosen topics. They have also launched a quarterly print publication available for purchase.

Achieving all of this was highly ambitious, and the UK Column accomplished it over many years. The financial costs were undoubtedly high, and funding remains a massive challenge. However, what clearly contributed to their success is that the planning did not fall solely on the shoulders of one individual; it relied on a dedicated team.

The deeply international nature of Countercurrents presents a much greater challenge than what can be achieved within the UK. The UK is a small country compared to the vast expanse of India, making travel and logistics much easier. Furthermore, the writers and readers of Countercurrents are scattered globally. While I am not technically savvy, perhaps a less ambitious, more achievable starting point could be something like a dedicated online chat forum.

These are simply visionary ideas. If Countercurrents decides to expand its reach, that would be wonderful. But if the ultimate choice is simply to continue forward in the same excellent fashion, I am entirely supportive of celebrating that path, too.

Binu is not asking for praise, but it is certainly due. I, for one, am proud to celebrate everything that has been achieved.

You can be part of the Countercurrents Silver Jubilee Symposium by sending your articles or testimonials to editor@countercurrents.org. You can read the original appeal here.