Social cohesion has lost its feelgood vibe. What will it take to offer a fair go for all?

The phrase should evoke optimism, positive expectations about the future, trust and belonging. That seems almost out of reach in a chaotic world One term has already become the well-intentioned weasel word of 2026: “social cohesion”. A phrase that can be dropped into speeches, inquiries and legislation, its meaning shape-shifts depending on the audience. Is it about “glue” or the rule of law? About community resilience or countering fear? Does it mean finding places of real exchange, or shutting