A formal statement expressing the aims and plans of a group or organization, especially a political party
A manifesto attempts to represent the intentions, goals, principles, and motives of an individual, group or organization — be it a political party, an artistic movement, a school of thought, or an individual belief system.
Derived from manifestum, the Latin word for ‘clear’ or ‘conspicuous’, a manifesto is typically a published document with a formal declaration of intentions that shall be pursued. The purpose is primarily to clarify what a group or movement stands for and their objectives. The United States Declaration of Independence and the Communist Manifesto are notable political manifestos, whilst the Surrealist Manifesto by André Breton is one example of a seminal art manifesto.
In politics, a manifesto is typically released in anticipation of an election, detailing the policies and goals of a political party. These can often take the form of election promises which may be instrumental in earning votes from the general public.
A draft version of the Labour Party’s general election manifesto was recently leaked, releasing details of proposed policies such as strengthening union rights, refunding the NHS and nationalizing railways. The final version of the manifesto will need to be officially signed and launched in anticipation of the UK general election on June 8th. Other major parties will also be compiling and releasing their manifestos in the hope of swaying voters with policies in the lead-up to the election.
manifesto
a formal statement expressing the aims and plans of a group or organization, especially a political party
