CIVICUS World Assembly

The 700 participants of this four-day event in Montreal on 20-23 August constituted a microcosm of civil society itself. There were representatives from NGOs of all stripes, trade unions, think-tanks, foundations and donor institutions. Some had local concerns, others global, and there was generally a good geographic spread.

The declared theme was ‘Acting Together for a Just World’ but ‘Why the World is Unjust’ might have been more appropriate. Of the numerous sessions and workshops, the most engaging session was on economic justice, largely because it was moderated by a skilled communicator (from the BBC’s World Have Your Say programme) and the speakers came from very different backgrounds.

Of the 36 workshops and special events, some, such as the one on ‘protecting and expanding civil society space’, were huge and really needed much more time (especially given the sensitivity of the subject matter). Others were little more than showcases for the work of particular CSOs.

Of course, the main value of such events is the opportunity to network with colleagues and friends – and there was plenty of opportunity for this. Without a doubt, the World Assembly’s contribution to building transnational social capital is worth the investment.

Perhaps the most powerful theme running through the assembly was the political backlash CSOs seem to be facing. The Assembly heard countless examples of repressive new laws or policies and of activists, especially human rights defenders, being jailed on trumped-up charges, beaten up or killed. Specific solidarity campaigns were launched calling for the release of detained activists, and there was discussion about how CSOs and more liberal governments could work together more closely to protect civil society.

The most salutary note was sounded by Kumi Naidoo. CSOs, he noted, now have a seat at many high-level tables, but he wondered whether changes are made as a result. He warned that access to power shouldn’t be confused with real influence.

Event CIVICUS World Assembly
Date 20-23 August 2010
Location Montreal, Canada
Organizer CIVICUS

For more information
www.civicusassembly.org

John Clark is a principal of The Policy Practice and an independent development consultant