Conclusions of the 2nd International Forum of Social Street Workers: The power of civil society
The International Forum of Social Street Workers is a network of 36 countries in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The Festival des Libertés is welcoming its second edition. Now mobilised more than ever, these field workers are meeting in 2010 in order to help build real social justice. After many debates and workshops, they will present their conclusions and recommendations publicly, resolutely focused on sustainable structural responses for the most disadvantaged populations faced with poverty, exclusion and violations of their most basic rights.
This key moment of the Forum will be an opportunity to debate civil society's role in a representative democracy, which while it is not participative, does function on influence. What do we mean by civil society? Is it the future of democracy? What influence do NGOs have on public policy? What types of actions do they have at their disposal? Do they rival other lobbies?
Presentation of the Network's recommendations by Edwin de Boeve (Director of Dynamo International) followed by a debate with Nigel Cantwell (founder of Defence for Children International, former head of the "Implementation of International Standards" unit at UNICEF, consultant on child protection), Charles Lejeune (President, Fédération des Centres de Service Social), Olga Zrihen (senator ) and Benoit Van Der Meerschen (President, Ligue des Droits de l'Homme - Belgian Human Rights League).
The debate will conclude with the presentation of works from the Forum's art workshops.
In partnership with International Network of Street Social Workers as part of their Second International Forum.
Free • In French, English, Spanish and Dutch (simultaneous translation) • Grande Salle.
A Bruxelles Laïque asbl organisation | Tel: +32 2 289 69 00 | In collaboration with Unie Vrijzinnige Verenigingen, Théâtre National and KVS | info@festivaldeslibertes.be
