The Nepal Weekly 
February 20, 2024
The World Social Forum 2024 commenced Kathmandu on 15th February. The theme of the international event was “Another World is Possible.”It was concluded on 19th February.
The Forum began in 2001 as an alternative to the World Economic Forum held annually in Davos, Switzerland. It was first held in Porto Alegre, Brazil with its roots emerging out of the Global South such as the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The Forum is a vital platform for open and horizontal exchange among civil society organisations, social movements, trade unions and individuals opposing neoliberal globalization. This edition of the WSF will focus on a myriad of pressing issues including economic inequality, climate justice, labour, migration, caste discrimination, gender equality, peace, sustainable development and many others, to engage in dialogue and actions that challenge neoliberal globalization and promote a more equitable, sustainable, and just world.
Since its inception in 2001, the WSF has been a beacon for social movements, unions and activists to come together, share experiences, and build strategies for change. The Kathmandu Forum represents a significant milestone, showcasing the resilience and diversity of global solidarity movements. It offers a unique platform for discussing solutions to many pressing global issues such as economic inequality, climate change, social justice and the rights of indigenous peoples.
People involved in social movements from 1252 different organisations from around 90 countries participated in in the five-day get together and discuss pertinent issues such as the impacts of the war, economic inequality, climate justice, labour migration, caste discrimination, gender equality, peace, and sustainable development, among others. Thematic panels, assemblies, and activities on 13 different themes, including economic inequality, the global financial system, gender equality, women’s rights, labor rights, migration, peace, justice, and human rights, are being held under the WSF.
Along with the solidarity march, the event hosted panel discussions on topics such as climate justice and environmental sustainability, economic inequality and the global financial system, labour rights and migration, peace, justice and human rights, and indigenous peoples’ rights and cultural preservation, among others.
Realising climate change as a global issue that has directly affected the lives of people in various aspects such as environmental, social, economic, and health. Nepal is also affected by the climate change and its effects. The impacts of climate change in Nepal have been observed in different forms, such as droughts and floods, changes in the weather period, and soaring temperature, which have devastating effects on agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods, leading to food and water scarcity, property damage, and loss of lives.
As a part of the 5 day events, a workshop was conducted which addressed the disparities and inequalities arising from the impact of climate change in Nepal at the national level. The aim is to enhance awareness regarding climate justice and social justice issues in Nepal highlighting success stories and best practices of climate and social from a human rights perspective. It was focused on awareness and to have a uniform understanding of climate justice and social justice in Nepal among organizational members. To understand the impact of climate change on women, Dalits, Youths, and marginalized groups and identify ways to address the disparities and inequalities of climate change. To inspire and encourage individuals advocating for climate justice by sharing success stories and exemplary approaches for the replication of such practices.
Within the World Social Forum 2024, Mountain Partnership member KIRDARC organized the Global Climate Justice Assembly: “Mountain in Peril Together for People and Planet.” This assembly seeks to amplify the voices of affected communities and advocate for tangible measures to address the injustices perpetuated by climate change.
The pursuit of profit and economic development has led to the overexploitation of natural resources, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and exacerbated climate change. Developing countries, in their pursuit of economic success, face challenges in balancing developmental needs with environmental preservation, intensifying social and economic vulnerabilities. To address these issues, a global effort is imperative, focusing on sustainable development strategies that integrate environmental considerations into economic policies. Equitable support for developing countries to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change is paramount.
Bhrikutimandap where most of the exhibitions took place was the main venue of the assemblies and around 100 activities and sessions while some places nearby like Ratna Rajya Laxmi Campus, Nepal Law Campus, Balmiki Campus, Bishwo Bhasa Campus, Shankerdev Campus. Padma Kanya Campus and Padmodaya High School extended supports for the events to conduct.
Some photos of the World Social Forum 2024
