From November 20–21, 2024, the Global Convergence for the Struggle for Land and Water (CGLTE-OA) held a pivotal workshop in Cotonou, Benin, setting the stage for the highly anticipated 2026 World Social Forum (WSF). Bringing together key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, trade unions, and civil society organizations, the event sought to evaluate progress, galvanize support, and establish structures to ensure the success of the forum. HIC participated in this encounter represented by HIC African Coordinator, Desmond Chiese.
Objectives of the Workshop
The two-day event aimed to:
- Review progress in the organizational process for WSF 2026.
- Increase awareness and commitment among stakeholders.
- Build robust frameworks for seamless planning and execution.
Day 1: Foundations for Success
The first day focused on strategic groundwork and achieving consensus on essential organizational structures. Key outcomes included:
- Review of the Concept Note
Participants evaluated and refined the guiding document for WSF 2026 to ensure alignment with its overarching goals. - Establishment of a National Coordination Team
A dedicated team was formed to facilitate collaboration between national and international stakeholders. - Agreement to Create a National Secretariat in Benin
The secretariat will act as a central hub for operations, ensuring smooth communication and planning. - Resource Mobilization Strategies
Stakeholders devised strategies to secure financial and logistical support for the forum. - Creation of Key Committees
Seven thematic committees were established to oversee specialized areas of preparation. Each will operate under clear terms of reference (TOR). The committees include:- Information and Communication
- Fund Mobilization
- Organization and Logistics
- Security and Sanitation
- Gender
- Culture
- Social and Tourism
Day 2: Roadmap and Theme
Building on the first day, the second day focused on finalizing the forum’s roadmap and theme.
- Roadmap Development
Participants agreed on a comprehensive roadmap covering five phases:- Preparation
- Mobilization
- Logistical Organization
- Execution
- Follow-Up
The roadmap’s implementation will follow a tight schedule, with the Benin National Secretariat leading the charge until March 2024.
- Presentation and Adoption of the WSF 2026 Concept Note
The refined concept note was officially adopted, providing a unified vision for the forum. - Validation of the Guiding Theme
The theme, “Resource governance, economic, socio-cultural, political, security, climate, migration, food and health crises? What are the alternatives for peace, social cohesion, and sustainable development in the world?”, was presented and unanimously validated. - Establishment of the National Secretariat
The National Secretariat, led by Mr. Bertrand and His Majesty BADA, will oversee all WSF 2026 activities in Benin. - Formation of a Working Committee
The Working Committee, comprising experts across various domains, was established. Sub-committees include:- Scientific Commission
- Communication
- Culture and Tourism
- Social Mobilization
- Organization and Logistics
- Gender
- Fund Mobilization
- Security and Civil Protection
- Health and Hygiene
- Youth and Volunteers
- Local Solidarity and Circular Economy
Looking Ahead
The 2026 World Social Forum promises to be a landmark event, addressing critical global challenges while fostering dialogue and collaboration for sustainable development. With the structures and strategies laid out during this workshop, CGLTE-OA and its partners are poised to make this forum an enduring legacy of progress, inclusion, and global solidarity.
Stay tuned for updates as we count down to WSF 2026 in Cotonou!
