V. I.

Lenin

A Tactical Platform for the Unity Congress of the R.S.D.L.P.

Draft Resolutions for the Unity Congress of the R.S.D.L.P.

Principles of Party Organisation

Whereas:

(1) the principle of democratic centralism in the Party is now universally
recognised; (2) although made difficult, it can nevertheless be put into effect within
certain limits in existing political conditions; (3) mixing the secret with the legal apparatus of the Party organisation has
proved most fatal for the Party, and plays into the hands of government
provocation; We are of the opinion, and propose that the Congress should agree:

(1) that the elective principle in the Party organisations should be applied
from top to bottom; (2) that departures from this principle, for example:

two-stage elections or co-optation to elected bodies, etc., may be permitted
only when police obstacles are insurmountable, and in exceptional cases
especially provided for; (3) that it is imperative to preserve and strengthen the secret nucleus of the
Party organisation; (4) that for public activities of all kinds (in the press, at meetings, in the
unions, particularly trade unions, etc.) special departments of the Party
organisations should be formed, which could not in any way jeopardise the
secret nuclei; (5) that there must be one central body for the Party, i.e., the general
congress of the Party must elect a single Central Committee, which shall
appoint the editorial board of the Party’s Central Organ, etc.

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