The Easter Rising was heroic, but the republica elite that emerged in its wake protected the rich, using the IRA to suppress land occupations. Andrew Flood argues that left republicanism is a dead end, always subordinating social revolution to the national cause.

Republican sovereignty is a multifaceted concept, says former Sinn Féin MEP Martina Anderson. Drawing on her own experience as well as the broader struggle, she traces the evolution of republican thought and its application to contemporary issues.

Drawing on WEB Du Bois’ notion of Double Consciousness, Roibeard Mac an Bheatha discusses what Irishness means now in the context of colonialism past and present.

The European Union is increasingly setting itself on a war footing, aligning itself ever more starkly with Empire. The contradictions of membership for Ireland couldn’t be clearer, writes Clare Daly. Progressive politicians must choose whether they stand with or against revamped imperialism.

The 26-county state’s tradition of engaging in principled neutrality has its roots in our anti-colonial struggle, writes Kieran Allen. We have no choice but to defend it vigorously against the pressures of empire and oppression.

Ireland’s artistic reputation thrives abroad, yet at home the system supporting creative freedom is under strain. Sara and Joshua Muthi argue that art cannot survive on private patronage alone and ask if the republic will protect it as a space of freedom or let it fall to market forces.