DPNet jointly marched in a rally at the World Social Forum
On February 15, 2024, the World Social Forum was inaugurated in Nepal. The event last for five days from February 15 to 19 in Bhrikutimandap Kathmandu. In the present context where the global community is currently coping with a multifaceted crisis encompassing environmental issues, food insecurity, epidemics, natural disasters, poverty, inequality, discrimination, and intensifying violence and conflict worldwide. Extreme right-wing groups are causing trouble by supporting more military power and working against human rights, freedom, and fair democratic processes. Consequently, the majority of marginalized citizens face increasing challenges, while a privileged few exploit the crisis to accumulate significant wealth, widening the gap between the rich and the underprivileged. The World Social Forum symbolizes a collective resistance against violence, discrimination, and hatred associated with neoliberalism, globalized capitalism, the climate crisis, patriarchy, castes, untouchability, gender discrimination, and sexuality issues. The forum advocates for an alternative world, encapsulated by the shared belief that another world is possible. The history of the World Social Forum dates back to 2001 AD.
To accomplish World Social Forum 2024 Nepal, the World Social Forum Nepal Council, World Social Forum Nepal Organizing Committee, and various sub-committees have been formed. The theme of the forum is “Another World is Possible”. The forum was enriched by more than 1252 groups from 92 countries either in person or virtually. The event offers a variety of discussions, self-planned activities, cultural programs, and chances to connect with others. It marks an important moment in the worldwide solidarity movement, highlighting strength and diversity. The event started with a solidarity march at around 10:00 am from the Bhrikutimandap Kathmandu. It went through Bhandrakali, New Road Gate, and Ratna Park, and back to Bhrikutimandap. March participants displayed banners and signs advocating for justice, peace, equality, and the cessation of discrimination.
DPNet Nepal along with Disaster Management Network (DiMaNN) and the National Network of Community Disaster Management Committee (NCDMC) marched in a rally at the World Social Forum. The team of DPNet in the rally was led by Mr. Surya Bahadur Thapa, DPNet chairperson. Dr. Raju Thapa, Vice-chair, along with Mr. Harshaman Maharjan, Deputy General Secretary from DPNet also participated in the opening session. DPNet's participation in the rally was part of its commitment and solidarity, emphasizing the belief that another world is possible. It aimed to actively engage in a global platform that promotes social justice, equality, and the possibility of a better world.
