The election of SYRIZA in Greece and rising popularity of Podemos and similar local parties in Spain has again opened the question for autonomous movements as to how change can be made in society. This panel will argue that change is made from below, but at the same time bring into question if change from above can make more space for those from below. The focus will be on concrete experiences of popular base movements, where the panelists have had direct experience, including in Spain, Greece, Argentina, Uruguay and Venezuela. Movements discussed will range from the 15M in Spain, the autonomous groups in Greece, the Comunas in Venezuela and the recuperated workplaces in Argentina, as well as those communities and movements in defense of the land and commons.