This book, the result of the collective work of the Academy of Marxism-CASS, addresses both general issues, common to all communist movements around the world, and related to individual areas. It outlines possible directions in the face of ongoing changes in the power relations between the two systems. Ample space is given to socialist countries - the PRC, Vietnam, North Korea, Laos, Cuba - with their specificities and strategies. Several chapters are devoted to communist and workers' parties in capitalist countries, both central and peripheral. A non-unique picture emerges, marked by advances and developments in some areas and setbacks and failures in others. The CASS Marxists' research aims to provide the realistic picture of the forces at work, "seeking the truth in facts". The book is a valuable internationalist tool, providing elements of knowledge and reflection useful for devising the most appropriate policies in the winding path of world history, toward socialism.