Issue: 2448

In Serbia the REX/B92 cultural centre describes itself as “a laboratory for research of new fields of culture”.

In the US young antimilitarist are producing a magazine called AWOL, with a focus on hip-hop and radical culture.

The Independent Media Centre network, also known as "Indymedia", is a global network of open, democratic and uncensored spaces on the web, where anyone can share their opinions and experiences. They are run entirely by volunteers, and the network now comprises almost 90 Independent Media Centres (IMCs) all over the world. Daniel Sewe takes a closer look.

Andrew Rigby tells the story of the "peace symbol"

Northern Ireland is dotted with murals, created by both loyalist and republican communities. Bill Rolston explains how and why they originate, and argues that, while we don't have to accept their political message, they should be treasured nonetheless.

With an emphasis on resistance, culture and identity, and with help from a group of Chilean and Argentinian survivors, War Resisters' staff member Roberta Bacic delivers insights into the struggle against impunity.

In June 2002 the Indian Censor Board demanded unprecedented cuts to a homegrown documentary film. They included deleting all scenes and audio which depict "leaders" and a sequence in which a Dalitneo-Buddhist argues that it is a travesty that nuclear tests were carried out on Buddha's birthday. Chandra Siddan interviewed radical filmmaker Anand Patwardhan.

Spanish activist collective, Murcia Canción de Autor, produce "homage" CDs to well-known political artists and engage in public performances. Roberta Bacic talked with Jesús Cutillas.

In our activist communities we both pass on vital information, and develop our cultural landscape, through telling stories - whether it's "round the peace camp fire", or in a more formal way. Mitzi Bales reports on the War Resisters' International's project aimed at preserving our culture through storytelling.

For some, Zapatista "leader" Marcos already has the same iconic status as Che. But in a few years time will commercial companies also be selling Marcos T-shirts, using and reducing him to yet another commodity: making the transition from cultured revolutionary to object in mainstream popular culture? And is he, and indeed Zapatismo, inspiring a culture of resistance, or cultural resistance? We asked Gustavo Esteva what he thinks.

Ippy: Your music is politicised by design, but what did you get into first, music or politics, and when?

French artist and antimilitarist Matt Mahlen offers a personal reflection on life, work, and identity, and what "culture and resistance" means to him.

Irish activist Mary Begley offers some thoughts on her "tough and rewarding" life and work as a street musician.

During the G8 meeting in Canada, Theresa Wolfwood met and talked with former child soldier Albino Forquilha, coordinator of the Mozambican Transforming Arms into Ploughshares project. Their conclusion? Maintaining a culture of peace requires an economic solution.

In this introduction to the issue's thematic section, Gareth Evans takes stock of the ideas and practice of current cultural resistance and suggests that, while much of it may emanate from the street (or equivalent), it can also help to build networks for long-term change.