11 December 2022
Around the world, grassroots activists are coming together to call for an end to impunity, and for justice and human rights to be respected. They challenge corrupt and powerful elites, call for gender equality, an environmental revolution and justice for serious crimes.
Working from the ground up, they have enormous potential to catalyse systemic change in their own communities and globally. Not being held back by economic, security or political interests, they can point the way towards a better future, one that is more just and equal.
But for change to happen, these initiatives need our full solidarity, especially as many activists are working in increasingly repressive environments. Building a larger community of solidarity around grassroots activism will increase the chances of overcoming crises and achieving lasting change.
From Colombia to Syria, this discussion put to the fore the significance of movement building and activism for justice, from small partnerships to large-scale coalitions.
Speakers:
- Ahmad Helmi – Co-founder of Ta’afi, Syria. Founding member of INOVAS (the International Network of Victims and Survivors of Serious Human Rights Abuses)
- Deicy Patricia Carabali – Founder of Asociación de Víctimas Renacer Siglo XXI, Colombia. Founding member of INOVAS (the International Network of Victims and Survivors of Serious Human Rights Abuses)
- Zabib Bakhit – Executive Director of Islamic Development and Relief Agency, South Sudan and current Shelter City guest
- NEW: Tamara Mohr – Programme manager, currently coordinating the GAGGA Women Leading Climate Action program at Both ENDS
- Marlies Stappers (Moderator) – Executive Director of Impunity Watch
This is event is organised in partnership with The Hague Humanity Hub as part of Just Peace Month. We are grateful to the Dutch Foreign Ministry and the Dutch Postcode Lottery for their support.
Read a recap of the discussion.