One of the latest videos released by the worldwide discussion network GlobalNet21 is an interview with Enfield Southgate MP Bambos Charalambous. Our MP answers questions put by students at Canterbury Christchurch University, mainly about his impressions as a new member about how Parliament works, its positive and less positive aspects. If you're not a Labour supporter, don't worry, there are very few party political points, but a lot of information relevant to anyone interested in our democratic workings.
What is GlobalNet21?
As the name implies, this is a worldwide network, but it's intimately connected to Palmers Green, as this 20,000-member organisation was the brainchild of local resident Francis Sealey, who moderates many of the online "webinar" discussions from his house.
GlobalNet21 describes itself as "the leading platform in the UK for discussing the major issues in the 21st Century to learn, connect and take action":
"We share a common concern for the sustainability of both our planet and the people on it. With almost 20,000 network members in the UK and abroad, we are making the debate, and democracy, more accessible by enlarging the Public Square and using social networks.
"As well as a network of individuals we have also set up a collaborative network of organisations to exchange good practice and transfer knowledge so that we can learn from each other. This network is cross boundary and includes local authorities, housing associations, universities, community groups and social enterprises. Our aim is through dialogue to celebrate diversity and develop community self-resilience and sustainability at a time of unprecedented social and environmental change."
In addition to online discussions, GlobalNet21 uses the Meetup platform to organise real-world meetings covering a wide range of subjects.