News

📍 Thammasat University, Bangkok
🗓️ Day One | International Civil Society Week 2025

🟣 Opening Plenary
At the start of the session, a moment of silence was held to honor civil society actors in Palestine, Sudan, and other regions facing crisis and repression.

“You are here because you believe in social justice, gender equality, and sustainability.” – Mandeep Tiwana, CIVICUS SG remarked.

Mandeep’s words resonated across the hall, acknowledging the pain and courage of those imprisoned or silenced for seeking a better world.

“We recognise you. We feel your pain.,” he said.

🟡 Celebrating Legacy and Solidarity
The plenary also celebrated AGNA, CIVICUS’ oldest civic society network, reminding us of the strength in long-standing coalitions.

🟢 Global Voices, Cultural Pride
The day is alive with international presentations and vibrant cultural expression. Participants from various parts of the world are wearing traditional attire, adding color and pride to the conversations.

🔵 Accessibility in Action
Inclusivity is front and center:
✅ Sign language interpretation
✅ Zoom accessibility
✅ Multilingual support
Everyone is part of the dialogue.

🔴 Innovation for Movement Building
A powerful video presentation from CIVICUS just aired, spotlighting how innovation is helping build movements that connect people across borders.

🔵 Video Message from Kumi Naidoo
In a stirring video message, former CIVICUS SG and president of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative,  Kumi Naidoo, reminded us of the heart of civil society:

“Solidarity is the most powerful renewable energy we have. Use it wisely. Spread it widely. Keep our movements moving with courage, compassion, and creativity.”

🟠 In Conversation
Sonia Kwami, Board Member of CIVICUS, moderated a compelling panel featuring Lysa John, Amitabh Behar, Ingrid Srinath, and Miklos Marschall. Together, they unpacked the evolving challenges facing civil society and discussed effective strategies for adaptation — including innovations in alliance-building and advocacy tactics. The panelists emphasised the urgent need for radical coalitions, the rebuilding of public trust, and bold, resonant communication that connects with everyday people.

🟣 Stand As My Witness
Nir Lama from FORUM-ASIA spotlighted the case of Khurram Parvez, a human rights activist detained in Indian administered Jammu and Kashmir for his peaceful activism.
We watched a moving video that told Khurram’s story — a reminder of the personal cost of defending rights and the urgent need for global solidarity. The Stand As My Witness campaign continues to amplify voices of human rights defenders unjustly detained around the world.

✨ What’s Next
The energy is unmistakable. Day One’s Plenary has laid the foundation for bold ideas, deep reflection, and radical connection.

The journey to reimagine democracy and rights has only just begun.

We now break for lunch, after which concurrent sessions will begin.

These highlights were compiled with the generous support of volunteers from Thammasat University.