Scottish Greens

Core positions and policies

The party advances a combination of ecological and progressive policies. Key priorities include rapid decarbonisation through renewables and energy efficiency, opposition to new nuclear power stations and military nuclear weapons, reform of land ownership and a stronger public sector role in essential services. Economically and constitutionally, the party supports proportional representation, a welfare system aimed at reducing inequality, and a vision of Scottish self-determination. For policy briefings and campaigns, visit policy pages or consult their environmental programs at green initiatives.

Organisation and leadership

The Scottish Greens use a co-leadership model and collective decision-making structures typical of many green parties. This includes elected co-convenors or co-leaders and a network of local branches and policy working groups. The party publishes manifestos, campaign materials and governance documents; officers and elected representatives are listed on the party’s membership and contact pages, for example see how the party is organised.

History and development

Rooted in the broader environmental and peace movements of the late 20th century, the Scottish Greens grew out of local green activism and formalised as a distinct political organisation while remaining in contact with green groups elsewhere in Britain and Europe. Over time they moved from single-issue campaigning to a comprehensive political programme addressing housing, transport and democratic reform. Historical overviews and timelines can be found at historical summary and on pages detailing the party’s early campaigns at early campaigns.

Electoral role and recent activity

The party contests elections to the Scottish Parliament, local councils and other devolved bodies, and has won representation in the Scottish Parliament in recent electoral cycles. It has generally not held seats in the UK House of Commons, reflecting the different electoral dynamics of Westminster contests. In recent years the Scottish Greens have participated in collaborative arrangements with other parties to influence government policy and secure executive commitments on climate and social programmes; details of election results and cooperation agreements are published on the party’s electoral information pages at election results, parliamentary work and government cooperation.

Notable positions and public profile

The Scottish Greens are notable for combining environmental priorities with support for democratic reform and greater Scottish autonomy. They advocate membership of European institutions for Scotland should it become independent, and have argued for a non-monarchical republican settlement and an independent currency as part of long-term constitutional change. Prominent party leaders and spokespeople, their public statements and interviews are collected at media centre and press releases.

Practical impact and public engagement

The party engages in public campaigns on sustainable transport, nature restoration, social housing and community energy projects, often working alongside non-governmental organisations and local initiatives. They provide resources for activists, volunteer opportunities and policy consultations; see their advice and campaign toolkits at campaign resources, volunteer information and consultations. For contact points and membership queries see get involved.

• Distinctive features: grassroots decision-making, co-leadership, emphasis on climate justice.
• Common alliances: cooperation with other progressive parties and civil society groups on environmental and social issues.
• Public-facing activity: electoral campaigning, policy development, local projects and advocacy.