Britain has one of the oldest democracies in the world, having been largely run by a parliament since the 1600s. However, there are those who believe that Westminster politics are now dysfunctional with the voice of the people rarely being listened to.

Without doubt, many of those voters have now been marginalised, especially by the sort of Westminster politicians who are viewed as power-hungry, money-grabbing, corrupt individuals motivated more by lining their own pockets than doing what their constituents want or, even better, by what is simply right. Despite this sad situation, the will of the people should never be underestimated and political activism in Britain is now probably stronger than ever, with the next generation of voters ready to bypass politicians to get some action and make real changes in the world.

A superb example crossed my radar today when it emerged that a teaching pack describing Palestinians as “terrorists” was handed out in an assignment to some 11-year-old pupils at a school in Scotland. One of the pupils showed it to his elder sister early on Tuesday evening. She brought it to the attention of her own friends via Facebook and within 12 hours a media storm was underway, thanks to the power of social networking.

– Read more: And the Lesson Today is Palestine and People Power – Yvonne Ridley, Middle East Monitor