Exploring the World Social Forum 2024: Another World is Possible

In the heart of the majestic Himalayas, where rugged landscapes meet vibrant cultures, Nepal became the stage for an extraordinary gathering of minds, ideas, and aspirations—the World Social Forum (WSF). In recent years, the WSF has evolved into a global phenomenon, serving as a platform for dialogue, activism, and collective action aimed at addressing pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. The decision to host the WSF in Nepal not only underscored the country’s growing significance on the global stage but also highlighted its commitment to fostering international solidarity and collaboration. This is the 16th edition of the WSF, taking place from February 15th to 19th, 2024, at the Bhrikutimandap Exhibition Centre in Kathmandu. The highlighted theme of this edition, “Another World is Possible,” focuses on hope for the future for the coming generation. More than 30,000 visitors are expected to attend the event over five days, with over 2,000 exhibitors participating from around the world. Many international private and non-governmental organizations will initiate activities and projects aimed at bringing about future change. The joint mission is to make this world a better place to live.

Unraveling the World Social Forum:

The World Social Forum is a decentralized gathering that brings together activists, intellectuals, grassroots organizations, and social movements from around the world. Since its inception in 2001, the WSF has served as a counterpoint to the World Economic Forum, providing a space for voices often marginalized in mainstream discourse to be heard. Unlike traditional conferences, the WSF operates on principles of openness, inclusivity, and horizontal organizing, with participants collectively shaping the agenda and activities. We face severe challenges of environmental degradation and climate change that cause food shortages and catastrophes. Nevertheless, amidst such plight, a spirit of resistance and an unwavering pursuit of solutions persist. Counter movements aiming to create a better way of life, rooted in justice and equity, are ongoing worldwide. The WSF has become a crucial platform to nurture such resistance and constructive ideas. It stands as an open space, facilitating the exchange of thoughts and experiences, enabling self-organized assemblies to strategize and make impactful decisions.

Nepal: A Fitting Host

Nestled between India and China, Nepal is a country of immense natural beauty and cultural diversity. Despite its challenges, including political instability and economic disparities, Nepal has a rich tradition of grassroots activism and community engagement. By hosting the WSF, Nepal aimed to showcase its commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development. Moreover, the choice of Nepal as the venue for the WSF underscored the global significance of issues such as climate change, inequality, and human rights, which resonate deeply in the Himalayan region. This global event being held in Nepal is also believed to boost the tourism economy of the country by maximizing global participation. Nepal, famous for Mount Everest and the birthplace of Lord Buddha, has many untold stories and mesmerizing trekking routes that can enhance visitors’ experiences. With a Hindu majority, Nepal is considered a peaceful community to explore and interact with.

Themes and Discussions

Throughout the WSF in Nepal, a wide range of themes and topics were explored, reflecting the diversity of concerns and struggles facing communities worldwide. Workshops, seminars, cultural events, and protests provided spaces for dialogue and collaboration on issues such as:

Climate Justice: Participants discussed strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change, promoting renewable energy, and advocating for the rights of climate refugees.

Social Inequality: Discussions delved into the root causes of inequality, including income disparities and gender discrimination, and explored solutions to create more equitable societies.

Indigenous Rights: Sessions focused on the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities, including land rights, cultural preservation, and the protection of indigenous knowledge.

Peace and Conflict Resolution: Participants shared experiences and strategies for building peace and fostering reconciliation in divided societies, against the backdrop of Nepal’s own history of conflict and transition.

Grassroots Activism: Workshops on community organizing, nonviolent resistance, and participatory democracy inspired participants to take action in their own communities.

Legacy and Impact

The World Social Forum in Nepal will leave a lasting legacy, inspiring new connections, collaborations, and initiatives aimed at building a more just and sustainable world. Participants will return to their communities with renewed energy and a sense of solidarity, empowered to continue the struggle for social justice and human rights. Moreover, the WSF served as a reminder that the challenges we face are interconnected and require collective action at local, national, and global levels. As the sun sets behind the towering peaks of the Himalayas, participants will bid farewell to Nepal, carrying with them memories of solidarity, resilience, and hope. The World Social Forum will once again demonstrate the power of people coming together to imagine a better world—a world where justice, equality, and dignity are not just aspirations but realities to be achieved through shared struggle and solidarity. And in the mountains of Nepal, that dream took on new meaning, echoing across valleys and resonating in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to be part of this remarkable journey.

Proposed Program of WSF 2024:

The WSF will take place from February 15th to 19th, 2024, in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The opening ceremony of WSF2024 Nepal will take place on February 15th at Khula Manch, Kathmandu. Thematic panels and all other self-organized activities will be held from February 16th to 18th, 2024. An Intercontinental Youth Forum will be organized on February 17th, 2024, in Kathmandu. The days will start with several thematic panels followed by self-organized activities, sessions, and assemblies (approximately 300 activities/sessions are expected each day), and end with informal meetings in open spaces and cultural programs. There will be around 900-1000 self-organized activities and assemblies throughout the WSF2024 event. While Bhrikutimandap will be the main venue of the assemblies, at least 100 activities/sessions will be held in multiple nearby locations within walking distance in collaboration with academic institutions, namely Ratna Rajya Campus, Nepal Law Campus, Balmiki Campus, Vishwo Bhasha Campus, Shankerdev Campus, Padma Kanya Campus, and Padmodaya High School.

Some Useful Links:

For Registration in the Event: https://www.wsf2024nepal.org/register

To Check Organizations Participating in the Event: https://wsf2024nepal.org/organization-registered-in-wsf

Activities of the WSF 2024: https://wsf2024nepal.org/activities

For any other details, please email [email protected]

How can we Help?

If you want to video document your experience or your organizational activities during the World Social Forum event and need support with permits, filming equipment, or filming crew, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or on WhatsApp at +977 9851345623. Additionally, if you need any other information or support during your stay in Nepal, please feel free to contact me. I will support you in the best possible way.