Caux Democracy Forum 2025 - Opening Ceremony

programme

Tuesday, 08 July

14:30 - 15:45
Theatre
Opening Ceremony

Moderator: Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

  •  Jean-Marc VIGNOLI (violin)

 

WELCOME WORDS

  • Jacqueline COTÉ, President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

REIMAGINING DEMOCRACY(IES) - Youth Perspectives

  • Video reel showcasing the "Reimagining Democracy(ies)" youth sessions (5 - 8 July)

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

ADDRESS by Council of Europe Representative 

  • Ambassador Francesca Camilleri VETTIGER, Chair of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies, Malta's Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe 

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

  • Philippe LAZZARINI - UNWRA Commissioner-General

 

A TIME TO REFLECT

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

OVERVIEW:  What to expect at the Caux Forum 2025

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

15:45 - 16:15
Main Hall
Refreshments

16:15 - 17:45
Parallel Sessions

Participants choose one of the three sessions at the front desk when arriving at the Caux Palace (colour cards)

 

SESSION 1: Revitalising Democracy - Integrity

Help us explore together, bring your experience to the table and share your stories as we unpack thecomplex and timely question regarding the importance of integrity in revitalising democracy.

WHERE: to be defined

Stay tuned for our inspiring speakers & facilitators

 

SESSION 2: Revitalising Democracy - Trust

We would love to hear from you! Join the conversation and help us explore the pathways towards (re)building trust to strengthen and revitalise democracy.

WHERE: Caux Palace Theatre

 

WITH:

  • Ambassador Nathalie CHUARD (Switzerland) & Roohullah SHINWARI (Afghanistan): A powerful diplomatic-human story of trust and perseverance.
  • Anas ANSAR (Bangladesh)  - A youth perspective on democratic values and return to roots.
  • Ambassador Christian GUILLERMET (Costa Rica) -  Reflections on integrity and values in diplomacy.
  • Jordan DAVIS (USA) - On air and On edge: a radio correspondent’s journey through America’s Democratic crossroads
  • Heinrich PICK (Germany - tbc) - Empathy & Action: A Democracy dialogues experience

 

SESSION 3: Revitalising Democracy - Courage

Share your insights and experiences as we explore what it means to live thoughtfully, responsibly and courageously in a fast-changing world.

WHERE: to be defined

Stay tuned for our inspiring speakers & facilitators

 

17:45 - 20:00
Belle Epoque & Main Hall
Cultural & Networking Activities

ART EXHIBITIONS - VERNISSAGE

Where: Belle Epoque & Caux Palace Esplanade

  • Dialogues on Humanity 
  • Caricature Exhibitions

 

RECEPTION

Where: Main Hall

Including: "CAUX AS A PEACE PARK"  - Announcement by:

  • Andreas LARENTZAKIS, Executive Director IIPT - International Institute for Peace through Tourism
  • Olivier GFELLER, Mayor of Montreux
  • Jacqueline COTÉ, President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

19:00 - 20:30
Dining Room
Buffet Dinner

20:30 - 22:00
Theatre
Concert

With the support of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation

22:00 - 22:30
Chapel
Peace, Unity & Reconciliation Songs (Taizé Songs)