Henry McLeish – författare

Small nations and independence have dominated our headlines for many years now. We look towards other countries' successes in comparison to our own. We watch them chart their own path across the world, flourishing independently. But, what is it about these small states? It is their resilience.This book delves into the present states of resilience in Scotland and Ireland, placing them within the context of historical and contemporary realities. Taking the analysis to new depths, McLeish and Harrison connect the futures of these nations beyond their existing constitutional differences to the broader archipelago that defines their northern and western boundaries.The book contends that Scotland’s current emphasis on independence poses a threat to its resilience, presenting a binary political focus. In contrast, it views Ireland as remarkably successful but acknowledges the need for continued efforts to ensure resilience. Furthermore, the authors see the archipelago as an opportunity for a mosaic of resilient nations to forge new cooperative structures and extend ties with their Nordic neighbours.This book will appeal to citizens interested in independence movements (both Irish and Scottish) alongside readers interested in politics and the relations of small nations.

Unlock the potential of Scotland’s future with Unfinished Business by Henry McLeish and James Mitchell. This compelling read is essential for political enthusiasts, policymakers and anyone passionate about the evolution of Scottish governance. McLeish and Mitchell dissect the legacy of the 1998 Scottish Parliament legislation, revisiting the core principles that shaped its foundation. Reflecting on a quarter of a century of progress, the authors highlight past challenges and outline a vision for the next 25 years. Advocating for partnerships rooted in respect and accountability, they call for reforms that align with the original aspirations of the Scottish Parliament. This book not only scrutinises Scotland’s current political status but also illuminates pathways for a more equitable and engaged democracy.Perfect for academics, students of political science and those interested in the future of Scotland, Unfinished Business is a crucial addition to the conversation about Scotland’s political landscape and future direction.

Considering the history of these organisations, their members and influence in their respective locations, they note the changing nature of Scottish culture as it flourishes amongst international diversity. Written as a series of specially conducted interviews with each chapter, a new location and new organisation Wherever the Saltire Flies investigates many and varied personalities.

Symptoms: the initial signs of a problem. Diagnosis: analysis of the problem.Treatment: suggested solutions.Henry McLeish, former First Minister of Scotland and Tom Brown, one of Scotland's leading political commentators, are joined by eminent psychologist Anne Ellis as they follow on from their politically provocative Scotland: the Road Divides by putting Scotland on the therapist's couch.They assess what in our past has led to a present nation that is such a strange clamjamfry. Light and dark, brash but with a constant chip on its shoulder, Scotland's Jekyll and Hyde nature is shown to have had led to serious social and political problems including anti-social behaviour, and borderline or real poverty.The first part of the book asks us 'tae see ourselves as ithers see us' and the remainder deals with how Scotland should see itself. It asks the difficult question: Scotland - who are we? We ourselves are typical Scots, conscious that we have our fair share of the flaws examined in this book. Recognising our failings is the first step... We warmly encourage readers - be they policymakers or otherwise - to engage in these issues. In this complex modern world there are no easy answers. But we have to keep asking the questions. - TOM BROWN and HENRY McLEISH

The future of Scotland is at a crossroads as Brexit creates more complexity and confusion. The SNP has lost momentum and a window of opportunity has emerged for a wider and deeper debate about the current political situation both in Scotland and the UK.What's the matter with democracy in Britain and how can we make citizenship meaningful in such turbulent times?How is populism changing how we view politics, political parties and democracy?Europe is our future - how can we stay in the EU?How can we address the anger, mistrust and fear currently dominating the public discourse and bitterly dividing Britain?What is Scotland's future role within the UK?How do we develop a more inspired politics where the citizen is valued and taken seriously?This book examines the most pressing issues facing us today in the context of the political and constitutional upheaval that is coursing throughout Western democracies. The shock politics of Trump and Brexit demonstrate that the political landscape has changed and we face an uncertain future. Henry McLeish offers a new approach to get us out of the mess we're in.

Did I only dream about Archie Gemmill scoring one of the greatest goals ever in beating Holland 3-2 in the 1978 World Cup?Did Jim Baxter really play ‘keepie uppie’ and torment the life out of the weary World Cup winners England in 1967?Were Celtic really the first British team to win the European Cup?Have we obsessives become untethered from reality? Are we hanging on to a world real or imaginary, where football dominated our lives to such an extent that it ‘was more than a game’, indeed ‘more important than life itself’?Has my natural childhood football environment and each of its overlapping parts – cultural, religious, identity, class, political, intellectual, psychological, sociological, philosophical and, sadly, tribal – created the conditions for distorted and highly selective lapses of memory and reality?I don’t think so.In this personal and thought-provoking book, former footballer and First Minister Henry McLeish examines his own and his country’s dysfunctional relationship with football. Read this book and rethink your own relationship with the beautiful game in the country that took it to the world.