Caux Democracy Forum 2025 - Programme

programme

Tuesday, 08 July

14:30 - 15:45
Theatre (4th floor)
Opening Ceremony

  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: French, English, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

_________________________________________________________________

 

MODERATION & INTRODUCTION: Exploring the Caux Forum 2025 - Methods and Mindset

  • Ignacio PACKER (UK/Spain/Switzerland), Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

  •  Jean-Marc VIGNOLI (France), violinist

 

WELCOME WORDS

  • Jacqueline COTÉ (Canada/Switzerland), President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

REIMAGINING DEMOCRACY(IES) - Youth Perspectives

  • Hajar BICHRI (Morocco), Creative Leadership, from our parallel youth democracy programme "Reimagining Democracy(ies), introducing a short film presenting their fresh perspectives and hope.

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

ADDRESS by Council of Europe Representative 

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

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

  • Philippe LAZZARINI (Switzerland), UNRWA Commissioner-General

 

A TIME TO REFLECT

  • Joseph DEISS (Switzerland), Swiss Economist and Politician, former President of the Swiss Confederation and former President of the United Nations General Assembly

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

EXPLORING PERSONAL CHANGE & WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CAUX FORUM 2025

  • Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

15:45 - 16:15
Dining Room (2nd floor)
Refreshments

16:15 - 17:45
Parallel Sessions: Integrity - Trust - Courage

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

 

SESSION 1: REVITALIZING DEMOCRACY - INTEGRITY

Help us explore together the role of integrity as a democratic value. Bring your experience to the table and share your stories as we un pack the complex and timely question regarding the importance of integrity in revitalising democracy.

  • WHERE: Caux Palace Theatre (4th floor)
  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

WITH:

  • Ambassador Christian GUILLERMET-FERNÁNDEZ (Costa Rica), Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations in Geneva
  • Corinne MOMAL-VANIAN (France), Executive Director, Kofi Annan Foundation
  • Dilara BAYARAK (Switzerland), Lawyer & Member of Grand Council of Geneva, Switzerland
  • Shukria BARAKZAI (Afghanistan), Politician, Journalist & Women’s Rights Advocate
  • Elder Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School

 

CO-MODERATION:

  • Sarah NOBLE (Canada/Switzerland), Head of Global Engagement, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Jonas TRUNEH (UK), Creative Leadership & Project Development Officer at Triangle

 

____________________________________________________________________________________

 

SESSION 2: REVITALIZING DEMOCRACY - TRUST

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

  • WHERE: Main Hall (4th floor)
  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: French, KoreanAI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

WITH:

  • Ambassador Nathalie CHUARD (Switzerland), Director of DCAF - Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance
  • Roohullah SHINWARI (Afghanistan), Head of External Relations at AFA
  • Anas ANSAR (Bangladesh), Senior Researcher at the Arnold-Bergstraesser-Institut, University of Freiburg, Germany
  • Jordan DAVIS (USA), RTS Correspondent in the USA and host of “Democracy! Démocratie!”

 

CO-MODERATION:

  • Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Sidra RASLAN (Syria), Creative Leadership & Amplify Impact Partner Sustainability Program Support and Community Lead at HP 

 

____________________________________________________________________________________

 

SESSION 3: REVITALIZING 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: The Galleries (4th floor wing next to entrance hall)
  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: French, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

WITH:

  • Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA aka GADO (Kenya), Graphic journalist, Cartoonist, Animator & TV Producer
  • Konstantine GAGNIDZE (Georgia), Founder & President of JEF Georgia
  • Hamza GHANDOUR (Lebanon), Peacebuilder & Coach, youth from Lebanon
  • Bahistha NOHTANI (Afghanistan), Dentist, Women's Rights Activist & Co-Founder of Afghanistan Women's Rights Association (AWRA)
  • Shahida TULAGANOVA (Uzbekistan), Producer & Director

 

CO-MODERATION:

  • John BOND (Australia/UK), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
  • Manuela GARAY (Canada), Creative Leadership

17:45 - 19:00
Terrace (2nd floor)
Reception / Caux Peace Park Inauguration / Vernissages / Networking

17:45: Opening Reception

 

__________________________________________________

 

18:00 - 18:10: Caux Peace Park Inauguration

WITH:

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

More information about the Caux Peace Park as part of the Global Peace Parks Initiative

 

__________________________________________________

 

18:30: Vernissages & Invitation to visit the three Caux Palace Expos

 

WITH:

  • Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes - Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA / Gado (Kenya), Graphic journalist, independent editorial cartoonist, animator, and TV producer

 

EXPO 1: "Dialogues on Humanity"

An exhibition produced thanks to a partnership between Photo Elysée - Lausanne, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Where: Caux Palace Esplanade (gardens)

 

__________________________________________________

 

EXPO 2: "Democracy? What democracy?!"

An exhibition with press cartoons by Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA aka GADO (Kenya) and Nadia KHIARI, alias Willis from Tunis (Tunisia).

Where: The Galleries (4th floor wing next to entrance hall)

 

__________________________________________________

 

EXPO 3: "Nuclear Cries Through Innocent Eyes"

A powerful art exhibit that brings to life the emotional and generational impact of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands—seen and expressed through the eyes of young Pacific Islanders. A a collaboration between the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, and the Marshallese Educational Initiative (MEI).

More about our exhibition and their artists

Where: The Galleries (4th floor wing next to entrance hall)

19:00 - 20:30
Dining Room
Buffet Dinner

20:30 - 22:00
Theatre
Concert: Licia Chery & Raoul Baumann

With:

  • Licia CHERY (Switzerland/Haïti), Author, Singer, Composer, Publisher & Presenter
  • Raoul BAUMANN (Switzerland), Composer, Arranger & Producer

Organised with the support of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation

 

Introduction:

  • Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes - Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change

 

Followed by refreshments in the Main Hall

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

With:

  • Tsvetana PETRUSHINA, Singer, Composer, Vocal Coach

Wednesday, 09 July

07:00 - 07:30
Caux Palace Esplanade (garden)
Greeting the Day Ceremony & Planting of the Caux Peace Park Tree

With: 

  • Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School
  • Andreas LARENTZAKIS (Australia), Executive Director IIPT - International Institute for Peace through Tourism

More information about the Caux Peace Park as part of the Global Peace Parks Initiative

07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection

Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.

07:30 - 08:30
Dining Room
Breakfast

09:00 - 10:45
Main Hall
Personal Stories & Conversations: Integrity

  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: French, Korean, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • Marina LITVINENKO (Russia), Public Speaker and Justice Campaigner
  • DR Drissa KANAMBAYE (Mali), Mission Manager in the Communication and Public Relations Unit at the Office of the Prime Minister of Mali
  • Lee JU-YOUNG (South Korea), Lawyer, Former Minister and Parliamentarian, President of MRA/IofC Korea

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
  • Daniel CLEMENTS (UK), Creative Leadership initiative for young leaders

10:45 - 11:15
Dining Room (2nd floor)
Coffee & Tea Break

11:15 - 12:15
Community Rooms
Community Groups

Community Groups are a core part of the Caux Democracy Forum experience, helping to build a sense of unity and shared purpose—“Let’s do this together!”

Meeting three times during the Caux Democracy Forum (9–11 July, 11:15–12:15), these small, diverse groups of around 15 participants offer a space to reflect on the plenary themes, exchange ideas, and learn from one another’s lived experiences.

Guided by a community group facilitator, each session creates a safe, respectful environment where deep conversations can flourish and real connections begin.

With ground rules rooted in trust, inclusion, and care, these groups invite you to be fully present, listen openly, and speak from the heart—if and when you feel ready and are often a great place to forge new and inspiring friendships.

12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch

13:30 - 14:30
Free Time

14:30 - 16:00
Welcome to our Thematic Tracks, Common Cause Groups...and more! 

 

How does it work?

  • Build your own afternoon agenda
  • Mix and match sessions freely

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 1 - HEALING THE WOUNDS OF THE PAST

Facing Dictators : The Power of Truth over Tyranny

  • Room: Main Hall 
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: French

 

With:

  • Marina LITVINENKO (UK/Russia), Public Speaker & Justice Campaigner
  • Shahida TULANGAYEVA (Uzbekistan), Producer & Director
  • Natalia ARNO (Russia), Founder & President of Free Russia Foundation

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
  • Jonas TRUNEH (UK), Creative Leadership initiative for young leaders

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 2 - TOWARDS A THRIVING ECONOMY FOR PEOPLE AND PLANET

Artificial Intelligence, Inner Growth and the Future of Democracy

  • Room: 400 (Foyer du Théâtre)
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With: 

  • Dr Cecilia CANNON, Managing Director, PolySinc (remotely)
  • Asheesh KHANEJA (India), Innovation Catalyst, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Tea MUSTAC (Croatia), Data Protection & AI Governance Expoert, Spirit Legal

 

Moderator:

  • Sandra UWANTEGE HART (USA/Rwanda), Tech4Good Strategist, Polisync

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 3 - PEOPLE FOSTERING SOCIETAL COHESTION

Promoting Democracy Dialogues – Constructive Conversations 

  • Room: 300 D & E
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

Resource person :

  • Heinrich PICK (Germany), Managing Director Elfgenpick & board member IofC Germany, and his experience with democracy dialogues in the city of Augsburg/Germany. 

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Christoph SPRENG (Switzerland), IofC International’s representative to the Council of Europe
  • Dr Laurie JOHNSTON (USA), Professor of Theology, Emmanuel College, Boston/USA

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

CULTURAL MEDIATION WORKSHOP

Creative Voices, Democratic Choices : How the Arts and Culture strengthen Democracy – “Dialogues on Humanity”

  • Room: The Galleries (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

Organisers : 

  • Yvan LOEHLE (Switzerland), Head of Protection, Humanitarian Competence Centre, Swiss Development Cooperation
  • Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes for Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

COMMON CAUSE GROUPS

Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)

  • Room: Villa Maria (closed group)

 

Young Changemakers Programme 

  • Room: Restaurant français

 

Caux Round Table Japan

  • Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English & Japanese
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International  (on invitation only)

  • Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
  • Language spoken: English

16:00 - 17:00
Terrace (2nd foor)
Coffee & Tea Break

17:00 - 18:30

THEMATIC TRACK 1 

Resisting Repression, Imagining Justice -  Guinea, Military Rule, and the Fight for Accountability

  • Room: 300D & E
  • Language spoken: English 
  • Interpretation: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • Ibrahima DIALLO (Guinea), Founder of the Maison de la Démocratie et des Droits de l'Homme (M2DH)
  • Mathieu POURCHIER (France), Executive Director, Tournons la Page

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
  • Sawsan RASLAN (Syria), Creative Leadership

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 2 

Socially Responsible Business - A Japanes Initiative

  • Room: 400 (Foyer du Théâtre)
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

With:

  • Hironori YANO (Japan), Chair Caux Round Table Japan
  • Hiroshi ISHIDA (Japan), Executive Director, Caux Round Table Japan

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Mark GOYDER (UK), Founder Director of Tomorrow’s Company
  • Sarah NOBLE (Canada/Switzerland), Head of Global Engagement, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Jonas TRUNEH (UK), Creative Leadership & Project Development Officer at Triangle

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

COMMON CAUSE GROUPS

What happens with U.S.?  (with: Allan-Charles Chipman, IofC USA)

  • Room: Main Hall
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: French, English

 

Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)

  • Room: Villa Maria (closed group)

 

Young Changemakers Programme 

  • Room: Restaurant français

 

Caux Round Table Japan

  • Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English & Japanese
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International  (on invitation only)

  • Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
  • Language spoken: English

 

18:30 - 19:30
Dining Room
Evening Meal

20:00 - 21:30
Rooms to be confirmed
Caux Candlelight Conversations

Step into the heart of the Caux Democracy Forum with our signature Candlelight Conversations—an inspiring evening experience designed to spark deep, authentic dialogue.

Set in softly lit rooms at the Caux Palace, these sessions create a serene and reflective atmosphere for meaningful exchanges. Participants select a discussion group based on a topic that resonates with them, each guided by an experienced conversation lead and supported by a facilitator to ensure a smooth and enriching experience.

With intentionally small group sizes and a focus on trust-building, the Caux Candlelight Conversations offer a unique opportunity to go beyond the surface, share perspectives, and be part of conversations that truly matter.

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

With:

  • Tsvetana PETRUSHINA, Singer, Composer, Vocal Coach

Thursday, 10 July

07:00 - 07:30
Caux Palace Esplanade (garden)
Greeting the Day Ceremony

With: 

  • Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School

07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection

Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.

07:30 - 08:30
Dining Room
Breakfast

09:00 - 10:45
Main Hall
Personal Stories & Conversations: Trust

  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: French, Korean, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • Ismar VILLAVIVENCIO (Honduras/Uruguay), Life Coach & Core Team Member Regional Trust-Building Programme of the Americas
  • Mahbouba SERAJ (Afghanistan), Executive Director of the Afghan Women Skills Development Center
  • Kateryna MALTSEVA (Ukraine), Programme Director Association for Communities Participatory Development 

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sarah NOBLE (Canada/Switzerland), Head of Global Engagement, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Maruee PAHUJA (India), Creative Leadership

10:45 - 11:15
Dining Room (2nd floor)
Coffee & Tea Break

11:15 - 12:15
Community Rooms
Community Groups

12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch

13:30 - 14:30
Free Time

14:30 - 16:00

THEMATIC TRACK 1 

Carrying the Unspoken: Afghan Women and the Work of Remembering

  • Room: The Galleries (4th floor next to entrance hall)
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

With:

  • Axel DUBINSKI, Co-Founder and Managing Director of TraumaHelden® gGmbH
  • Shukria Barakzai, Politician, Journalist & Women’s Rights Advocate
  • Bahishta Nohtan, Dentist, Women's Rights Activist & Co-Founder of Afghanistan Women's Rights Association (AWRA)

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
  • Asmaa SLEEM (Egypt), Creative Leadership

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 2 

How Can Africa And the World Together Create Thriving African Economies?

  • Room: 400 - Foyer du Théâtre
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

With:

  • Ndaizhivei GURARA (Zimbabwe), Legal Advisor with CNRG 
  • Farai MAGUWU (Zimbabwe), Executive Director, Centre for Natural Resource Governance 
  • Dr Drissa KANAMBAYE (Mali), Mission Manager in the Communication and Public Relations Unit at the Office of the Prime Minister of Mali

 

Co-Moderators:

  • John BOND (UK/Australia), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
  • Maruee PAHUJA (India), Expressive Arts Consultant, Process Facilitator, Visual Artist, Creative Leadership

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 3

Sustained Actions : Communities with a Purpose 

  • Room: 300 D & E
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: Ai-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

Resource person :

  • Allan-Charles CHIPMAN (USA), Executive Director IofC USA, with the experience in the city of Richmond, VA/USA

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Christoph SPRENG (Switzerland), IofC International’s representative to the Council of Europe
  • Dr Laurie JOHNSTON (USA), Professor of Theology, Emmanuel College, Boston/USA

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

COMMON CAUSE GROUP: CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST - PERSPECTIVES FROM FRANCE

 

  • Room: Main Hall
  • Language spoken: French & English
  • Interpretation: English, French

SESSION 1: Restoring Mutual Understanding and Recognition as a Prerequisite for Trust

At the heart of Initiatives of Change’s philosophy is the belief that healing begins with acknowledging the inner motives, emotions, and prejudices of all those affected by conflict. To overcome division, the traumas and feelings of fear, insecurity, racism, injustice, betrayal, hatred, powerlessness, despair, and manipulated identities must first be heard and understood.

 

With: 

  • Radjaa ABOUDAGGA, Geostrategic Advisor
  • Janine ELKOUBY, Professor of classical literature and former vice-president of the Jewish Consistory of the Bas-Rhin
  • Pierre HASKI, Journalist (pre-recorded speech)
  • Yoav LEVY, Teacher of biblical studies and specialised in Hebrew texts

and others

 

Moderator:

  • Brahim HAMMOUCHE (France), Head of the Psychiatry Department, Metz-Thionville Hospital, former Member of Parliament Moselle/France

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

MORE COMMON CAUSE GROUPS

Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)

  • Room: Villa Maria (closed group)

 

Young Changemakers Programme 

  • Room: Restaurant français

 

Caux Round Table Japan

  • Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English & Japanese
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International  (on invitation only)

  • Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
  • Language spoken: English

16:00 - 17:00
Terrace
Coffee & Tea Break

17:00 - 18:30

THEMATIC TRACK 1 

From Wounds to Bridges: Overcoming Enmity and Reclaiming Connection

  • Room: Main Hall
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: English / French

 

With:

  • Oleksandra MATVIICHUK (Ukraine), Human Rights Defender working on issues in Ukraine and the OSCE region and heading the human rights organisation Center for Civil Liberties, which was awarded the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize (video address)

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
  • David Abudlmalik NUHU, Creative Leadership

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 2 

Transforming Economies For Ecological And Social Flourishing

  • Room: 400 - Foyer du Théâtre
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

With:

  • Aili CHANNER (UK/France)
  • Leela CHANNER (UK/France), PhD candidate in Behavioural Ecology & Photographer
  • Mark GOYDER (UK), Founder Director of Tomorrow’s Company

 

Co-Moderator: 

  • John BOND (UK/Australia), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
  • Viviane STRAUB (Germany/UK), Creative Leadership & Teacher

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 3

Working for Good Democratic Governance

  • Room: 300 D & E
  • Language spoken: English & French
  • Interpretation: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

Resource persons :

  • Fabrice DALONGEVILLE (France), Independent Consultant & Mayor of Auger-Saint-Vincent, on his experience on civic engagement & good governance in France
  • Christoph SPRENG (Switzerland), IofC International’s representative to the Council of Europe, with experiences at the Council of Europe and International Labour Organisation.

 

Moderator:

  • Dr Laurie JOHNSTON (USA), Professor of Theology, Emmanuel College, Boston/USA

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

CULTURAL MEDIATION WORKSHOP

Creative Voices, Democratic Choices : How the Arts and Culture strengthen Democracy – “Democracy? What Democracy?”

 

  • Room: The Galleries (4th floor next to entrance hall)
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered


Organisers : 

  • Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA (GADO) (Kenya), Cartoonist & Artist
  • Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes for Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

COMMON CAUSE GROUPS

Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)

  • Room: Villa Maria (closed group)

 

Young Changemakers Programme 

  • Room: Restaurant français

 

Caux Round Table Japan

  • Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English & Japanese
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International  (on invitation only)

  • Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
  • Language spoken: English

18:30 - 19:30
Dining Room
Evening Meal

20:00 - 21:00
Main Hall
Filmscreening & Panel Discussion: "Les Doléances" - The Voices of Citizens: Betweewn Grievances and Participation

  • Room: Theatre
  • Language spoken: English & French (film in French with English subtitles)
  • Interpretation: English, French, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With: 

  • Dilara BAYRAK (Switzerland), Lawyer & Member of Grand Council of Geneva, Switzerland
  • Allan-Charles CHIPMAN (USA), Executive Director of Initiatives of Change USA
  • Fabrice DALONGEVILLE (France), Independent Consultant & Mayor of Auger-Saint-Vincent (France)

 

Moderator:

  • Jordan DAVIS (USA), RTS Correspondent in the USA and host of “Democracy! Démocratie!”

 

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

With:

  • Tsvetana PETRUSHINA, Singer, Composer, Vocal Coach

Friday, 11 July

07:00 - 07:30
Caux Palace Esplanade (garden)
Greeting the Day Ceremony

With: 

  • Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School

07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection

Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.

07:30 - 08:30
Dining Room
Breakfast

09:00 - 10:45
Main Hall
Personal Stories & Conversations: Courage

  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: English, French, Korean & AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • Farai MAGUWU (Zimbabwe), Executive Director, Centre for Natural Resource Governance 
  • Natalia ARNO (Russia), Founder & President of Free Russia Foundation
  • Yukihisa Fujita (Japan), Former Vice-Minister of Finance and former member of Upper and Lower Houses of the Japanese Diet (Parliament)

 

Co-Moderators:

  • John Bond (Australia/UK), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
  • Sawsan RASLAN (Syria), Creative Leadership

10:45 - 11:15
Dining Room
Coffee & Tea Break

11:15 - 12:15
Community Rooms
Community Groups

12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch

13:30 - 14:30
Free Time

14:30 - 16:00

THEMATIC TRACK 1 

Where the Past Still Bleeds: A Workshop on Memory, Healing, and Reconciliation

  • Room: The Galleries (4th floor next to entrance hall)
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

With:

  • Arshalouys TENBELIAN (Lebanon), Communications Specialist & Co-Chair Kurdish-Armenian-Turkish Dialogue

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Sophie KAYES (UK), Human Rights Advocate & Campaigner
  • Steven LIN (Canada), Creative Leadership

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 2 

How Can We Each Advance Human Rights In Our Situation?

  • Room: 400 - Foyer du Théâtre 
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • Michael CAMILLERI (USA), Chief of Branch at the United Nations Rights Office in Geneva

and others

  • Farai MAGUWU (Zimbabwe), Executive Director, Centre for Natural Resource Governance 

________________________________________________________________________

 

COMMON CAUSE GROUP: CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST - PERSPECTIVES FROM FRANCE

SESSION 2: Religions, both Instruments of Conflict and Potential Sources of Peace

  • Room: Main Hall
  • Language spoken: French & English
  • Interpretation: French, English

 

In this region, where the three major monotheistic religions originated, spirituality can be both exploited for political ends and harnessed as a powerful force for healing and reconciliation. This round table will explore how religious traditions contribute to conflict, but also how they can serve as bridges to peace and understanding.

 

With: 

  • Hervé Élie BOKOBZA, Theologian & Writer
  • Ghaleb BENCHEIKH, Islamologist & President of the Foundation of Islam in France
  • Claire REGGIO, Teacher & Trainer, Aix-Marseille University & Domuni Universitas
  • Antoine ARJAKOVSKY, Director of Research, Collège des Bernardins, Paris

and others

 

Moderator:

  • Brahim HAMMOUCHE (France), Head of the Psychiatry Department, Metz-Thionville Hospital, former Member of Parliament Moselle/France

 

____________________________________________________________________

 

MORE COMMON CAUSE GROUPS

Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)

  • Room: Villa Maria (closed group)

 

Young Changemakers Programme 

  • Room: Restaurant français

 

Armenian-Turkish-Kurdish Dialogue

  • Room: 315

 

Caux Round Table Japan

  • Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English & Japanese
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International  (on invitation only)

  • Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
  • Language spoken: English

 

16:00 - 17:00
Terrace
Coffee & Tea Break

17:00 - 18:30

THEMATIC TRACK 1 / COMMON CAUSE GROUP: CONFLICTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST - PERSPECTIVES FROM FRANCE

SESSION 3: Building International Awareness of the Middle East Conflicts

  • Room: Main Hall
  • Language spoken: English, FRench
  • Interpretation: English, French

 

This session will focus on the role of civil society and European nations in fostering a shared global consciousness around these conflicts. It will explore how to rehumanise international relations, galvanise social energy, and give real substance to human rights and solidarity.

 

With: 

  • Rafaël TYSZBLAT (France), Mediator & Trainer in Interconvictional and Interidentity Dialogue at Connecting Actions
  • Bertrand BADIE (France) (pre-recorded speech), Political Scientist & Expert in International Relations
  • Alain MICHEL (Switzerland), Co-founder & President of ÉquiLibre, Founder of Hommes de Parole
  • DR. Peter SHAMBROOK (UK), Independant Scholar, Author & Historical Consultant at the Balfour Project
  • Elio AZAR (Lebanon), Special Initiatives Coordinator, Principles for Peace

and others.

 

Moderator:

  • Brahim HAMMOUCHE (France), Head of the Psychiatry Department, Metz-Thionville Hospital, former Member of Parliament Moselle/France

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 2 

A Course To Help Rebuild A Shattered Nation

  • Room: 400 - Foyer du Théâtre 
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • Claudine HAENNI (Switzerland), Leadership Skills Trainer for people in Myanmar

and a participant from Myanmar

 

Moderator:

  • John BOND (Australia/UK), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
  • Hani ABOU FADEL (Lebanon), Creative Leadership

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

THEMATIC TRACK 3

Pioneering Minority Right : The Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations

  • Room: 300 D & E
  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A presentation & conversation with:

  • Christoph SPRENG (Switzerland), IofC International’s representative to the Council of Europe 

 

Moderator:

  • Dr Laurie JOHNSTON (USA), Professor of Theology, Emmanuel College, Boston/USA

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

MORE COMMON CAUSE GROUPS

Reimagining Democracy(ies), leadership programme for young leaders, by Creative Leadership (on invitation only)

  • Room: Villa Maria (closed group)

 

Young Changemakers Programme 

  • Room: Restaurant français

 

Caux Round Table Japan

  • Room: 400 A - Salon du Pasquier (4th floor)
  • Language spoken: English & Japanese
  • Interpretation: no interpretation offered

 

A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities, by IofC International  (on invitation only)

  • Room: 461 - Salon Grammont
  • Language spoken: English

18:30 - 19:30
Dining Room
Evening Meal

20:00 - 21:00
Theatre
Caux's got Talent!

  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: English, French, Korean

 

MC:

Creative Leadership youth initiative

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

With:

  • Tsvetana PETRUSHINA, Singer, Composer, Vocal Coach

Saturday, 12 July

07:00 - 07:30
Caux Palace Esplanade (garden)
Greeting the Day Ceremony

With:

  • Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School

07:30 - 08:00
Main Hall - Bay Window
A Moment of Quiet Reflection

Enjoy a moment of quiet, inspiration and music by the bay window in the Main Hall, with a breathtaking view of the rising sun on the Swiss mountains and the lake.

07:30 - 08:30
Dining Room
Breakfast

09:00 - 10:45
Main Hall
Personal Stories & Conversations: Hope

  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: French, English, Korean, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

With:

  • A Vision for Initiatives of Change's Global Priorities
  • Participants from the Creative Leadership programme "Reimagining Democracy(ies)"
  • Teenagers & young adults from the Caux Young Changemakers Programme
  • Rafaël TYSZBLAT, Mediator & Trainer in Interconvictional and Interidentity Dialogue at Connecting Actions
  • Armenian-Turkish-Kurdish Dialogue 
  • Caux Round Table Japan 

 

Moderators:

  • Viviane STRAUB (Germany/UK), Creative Leadership
  • Ignacio PACKER (UK/Switzerland/Spain), Executive Director, Caux Initiatives of Change

10:45 - 11:15
Dining Room
Tea & Coffee Break

11:15 - 12:15
Main Hall
Closing Ceremony & Open Mic

  • Language spoken: English
  • Interpretation: French, English, Korean, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

Co-Moderators:

  • Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Sarah NOBLE, Head of Global Engagement, Caux Initiatives of Change

12:00 - 13:30
Dining Room
Lunch

from 12:15 onwards -
Departures

Andrew Stallybrass (Council)

Andrew Stallybrass, together with his wife Eliane, has been involved in the work of Initiatives of Change for many years and in many capacities, including conference organisation, work weeks, communications. Andrew was one of the co-authors of 75 Years of Stories, published in 2021 to mark the Foundation’s 75th anniversary, previously led Caux Editions and is a member of the "For A New World" team, publishing stories and documents linked to the history of Initiatives of Change.

Gordon Robinson

Gordon Robinson is a self-employed International Marketing Advisor with a distinguished 36-year career at The Timken Company, where he held senior leadership roles, including Managing Director and later Chairman of a publicly traded company in India. A Mechanical Engineer by training, Gordon’s early career included roles in Sales, Marketing, Advertising, and PR, followed by two decades in general management with global responsibilities.

Gilbert Monnard

Gilbert Monnard has followed a diverse career path combining technical expertise, interpersonal skills and numerous humanitarian missions in Africa and Haiti with Médecins Sans Frontières and Swiss Cooperation. With a master's degree in water and the environment, he has also worked as an engineer and project manager in drinking water supply in Valais. Versatility, his desire to ‘be part of the world’ and his commitment to causes he believes in are the guiding principles of his career.

International Day of Concience 2025: True Peace and Security Begin Within

By Ignacio Packer, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change

15/04/2025
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By Ignacio Packer, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change

 

On 4 April 2025, the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation hosted a remarkable event at the Palais des Nations in Geneva: the International Day of Conscience 2025. Co-organised by Sofia Stril-Rever (BeTheLove), Pascale Fressoz (AI-ODD), and the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, the event brought together over 250 participants and more than 45 speakers, including representatives of the UN, UNESCO, Permanent Missions, governments, Geneva, civil society, spiritual leaders, and visionary youth. Together, they shared powerful messages of conscience, love, and peace—at a time when the world is urgently searching for meaning and hope.

Ignacio Packer, Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, delivered the following inspiring opening address:

 

International Day of Conscience 2025 banner
Ignacio Packer speaking at the Palais des Nations on 4 April 2025

 

The Importance of Conscience and a Strong Moral Compass in Today's World

The new US administration has accelerated the use of an assertive hard power strategy to foreign policy. This shift in American policy has raised significant concerns across Europe, prompting nations to prioritize rearmament and respond to escalating trade tensions.

On 4 March, the European Commission introduced the ReArm Europe Plan, a €800 billion initiative to bolster EU defense expenditures over four years.

Shortly after, on 14 March, Germany's conservative Chancellor-in-waiting, Friedrich Merz, secured backing to amend the nation’s constitutional debt limits, enabling a historic €1 trillion investment in defense and infrastructure.

Despite these developments, European leaders and the public appear unprepared for the new geopolitical landscape. How much of the policy discourse is driven by emotional reactions rather than long-term strategic planning? Are we not being led by decisions that lack a coherent vision for a peaceful future?

We are witnessing a shift not only toward military rearmament but also economic warfare, where sanctions, resource control, and strategic alliances serve as instruments of power. This competition for dominance risks deepening global divisions and conflicts.

...an urgent need for a moral and ethical compass.

Yet, what is often overlooked in discussions of military and economic strength is the urgent need for a moral and ethical compass. How are we equipping ourselves with the values and skills essential for lasting peace? While nations focus on strengthening their armed forces and economic leverage, true stability depends on the principles that guide their leaders and citizens.

The organisation I have the privilege of working for, Caux Initiatives of Change, is committed to the belief that personal transformation is key to global change. Ethical leadership, trust, reconciliation, and peacebuilding must be rooted in a conscious commitment to truth and justice—principles that shape both domestic policies and international relations.

A sustainable future requires individuals to cultivate responsibility, honesty, and compassion—qualities that foster trust within communities and between nations. Without a firm dedication to these principles, military power and economic strength alone cannot guarantee peace; rather, they risk fueling further division and conflict.

History has shown that societies thrive not only through strategic defense but through the moral character of their people. Leaders who act with integrity inspire confidence, and nations that prioritize ethical conduct earn global respect. Alongside military preparedness and economic warfare, there must be an equally determined effort to revive core values such as mutual respect, dialogue, and a genuine pursuit of the common good.

True security is not merely about defending borders. It is about upholding the moral and ethical principles that sustain unity, justice, and peace through conscious and deliberate action.

Ethical leadership, trust, reconciliation, and peacebuilding must be rooted in a conscious commitment to truth and justice.

International Day of Conscience 2025 banners Ignacio Packer
With Sofia Stril-Rever, co-convenor of the IDC 2025, and in conversation with young leaders Maruee Pahuja (India) and Saïd Touhami (Morocco/Netherlands)

 

Marking the International Day of Conscience

As we mark the International Day of Conscience, let this be a moment of reflection - a call to examine the values that shape our decisions and the kind of future we are building. This day reminds us that true peace and security begin within, rooted in integrity, responsibility, and a shared commitment to the common good.

And let this be just the beginning. Caux Initiatives of Change is part of a global people’s movement dedicated to trust building, reconciliation, and peacebuilding. We believe that personal transformation and a strong moral and spiritual compass is essential in navigating today’s challenges.

I invite you to take part in this journey by joining one of our upcoming events at the beautiful and inspiring Caux Palace near Montreux. This May, our Caux Arts and Peace Encounters will explore how we can foster peace through the power of arts and dialogue, while this summer, the Caux Forums for Democracy and Inner Development offer a space for changemakers to learn, reflect, and take meaningful action to address our world’s pressing challenges.

Change begins with the courage to listen to our conscience—let’s take that step together.

Personal transformation and a strong moral and spiritual compass is essential in navigating today’s challenges. (...) Let this be just the beginning!

International Day of Conscience 2025 banners Ignacio Packer
At the closing of the International Day of Conscience 2025 with young French artist Jean-Baptiste Demars.

 

What is the International Day of Conscience?         

The International Day of Conscience (IDC25) on 5 April has been established in 2019 by the General Assembly of the United Nations to invite all human beings to focus their minds every year on how to build « a culture of peace with love and conscience ». With this resolution (A/RES/73/329), the General Assembly emphasized the urgent necessity of a mindset shift to address the global challenges facing the human family, including issues such as poverty and hunger which kills a child’s life every eleven seconds. This radical shift of mindset is highlighted by the reference to love enshrined for the first time in a UN resolution.     

Furthermore, despite ongoing international tensions, in September 2024 all UN Member States signed up a Pact for the Future, to set themselves "on a path towards a brighter future for all of humanity". They pledged "a new beginning in multilateralism" based on the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 

They reaffirmed their "enduring commitment to the 2030 Agenda" adopted in 2015, whose 17 SDGs have been jeopardized by the implementation gap that followed. Governments unanimously renewed their commitment to Leave No One Behind and established this guiding principle for all components of civil society. Indeed, no government acting on its own can achieve the 2030 Agenda. Its success depends on each and everyone of us.  

The International Day of Conscience (IDC) 2025 offered the opportunity to reflect and plan to act on what we can do to Leave No One Behind.

__________________________________________________________________________

 

Ignacio Packer 2023

IGNACIO PACKER is Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, a Swiss private charitable foundation with the mission to provide a safe and privileged space to inspire, equip and connect individuals, groups and organizations from around the globe to engage effectively and innovatively in the promotion of trust, ethical leadership, sustainable living and human security. Ignacio has over 30 years of experience in humanitarian work and development issues. He is an expert on human rights and social issues and has been strongly engaged in global advocacy on protection frameworks for migrants and refugees with a particular focus on children and youth.

 

 

Photos: Antonin Lechat, U. Ott Chanu

 

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"Inner Development for Outer Change" – A Heartfelt Dialogue at the International Day of Conscience

On 4 April, 2025, in honour of the International Day of Conscience, a unique and moving conversation unfolded at the Palais des Nations in Geneva between three voices from different parts of the world...


"Inner Development for Outer Change" – A Heartfelt Dialogue at the International Day of Conscience

15/04/2025
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On 4 April, 2025, in honour of the International Day of Conscience, a unique and moving conversation unfolded at the Palais des Nations in Geneva between three voices from different parts of the world, united by a shared belief: lasting change in the world begins with transformation within.

Ignacio Packer (Executive Director, Caux Initiatives of Change), Saïd Touhami (LoveForce Ambassador and peace educator, Morocco/Netherlands), and Maruee Pahuja (Creative Leadership initiative of young leaders and LoveForce Ambassador, India) came together not to deliver speeches, but to hold space—for reflection, vulnerability, and deep listening.

This wasn’t your typical panel. Instead of statements and solutions, the conversation offered a quiet, reflective space—an intentional pause from the busy programme—where the audience was invited to slow down and tune into the inner dimensions of change-making.

 

International Day of Conscience 2025 banner
Ignacio Packer speaking at the International Day of Conscience 2025

 

A Conversation Rooted in Conscience

Ignacio Packer opened the space with a simple yet powerful question: "We often speak of changing the world, but how often do we reflect on the inner transformations needed to truly create that change?"

He spoke honestly about his personal struggles with staying present, and how long-distance running became his form of meditation in motion—a practice that taught him awareness, resilience, and clarity. “Leadership,” he said, “is a bit like running: it’s about putting one foot in front of the other, even when it’s hard, and staying connected to why we began.”

For Ignacio, being present, building inner clarity, and fostering emotional resilience are non-negotiable qualities for leaders seeking sustainable impact.

 

The Ocean in a Drop

Maruee Pahuja

Maruee Pahuja (India) brought in the perspective of the arts, creativity, and the collective journey of self-discovery. Quoting Rumi—“You are not a drop in the ocean, you are the ocean in a drop”—she reflected on her personal journey of picking up pastel colours one day in 2014, which unexpectedly opened the door to a deeper, playful, and healing connection with herself.

Since then, her path has led her to facilitate over 400 arts-based workshops globally, including initiatives in well-being, leadership, and peacebuilding. Maruee’s vision is clear: “There are as many ways to love as there are hearts. Inner development is personal—but when shared, it becomes a powerful collective force.” She invited the audience to imagine a world where expressive arts are not an extracurricular luxury but a gateway to empathy, healing, and conscious action.

 

Dialogue, Education, and Peace

Drawing from his background in international public policy and peace education, Saïd Touhami (Netherlands) brought in the essential role of dialogue and education. He asked: “What if schools didn’t just teach knowledge, but also inner development—empathy, deep listening, and emotional resilience?”

Having helped create the “School of Peace” in the Netherlands, inspired by Shaykh Khaled Bentounes' vision of a Culture of Peace, Saïd emphasized that true education must nourish the heart as much as the mind.

 

International Day of Conscience 2025 banner
From left to right: Maruee Pahuja, Saïd Touhami, Ignacio Packer

 

From Fear to Love: Leading with Conscience

One of the most resonant moments came when Ignacio posed a powerful question: “Am I leading from fear, or from love?”

This question, he explained, continues to shape his choices as a leader. Fear often drives us to control, to rush, to judge. But when we shift to leading from love—through compassion, curiosity, and presence—we build trust, connection, and transformation.

The dialogue didn’t offer quick fixes. Instead, it asked questions—soulful, sincere ones—inviting the audience to reflect.

To conclude, Maruee closed with a poetic reflection: “Great ideas, it is said, come into the world as gently as doves. Perhaps if we listen carefully, amid the uproar of nations, we might hear the flutter of wings—the gentle stirring of life and hope.”

 
International Day of Conscience 2025 banner
Right: Maruee Pahuja, Ignacio Packer and Sarah Noble. / Centre: Saïd Touhami / Right: Maruee Pahuja

 

A Seed Planted on the International Day of Conscience

Held as part of the Caux Initiatives of Change’s ongoing commitment to ethical leadership and inner transformation, this conversation was intended to plant seeds—of reflection, of community, and of quiet courage: Begin within. Be still. Then act.

Missed the event? Watch the replay on our YouTube channel

 

Maruee Pahuja is part of the Creative Leadership team of young leaders organising Reimagining Democracy(ies), a training course for young changemakers from 5 - 12 July 2025 at the Caux Democracy Forum. If you are aged 18 - 35, passionate about reshaping democracy and exploring its values, find out more and apply now! 

Maruee is also a member of the advisory committee of the Caux Arts and Peace Encounters event at the Caux Palace (12 – 14 May 2025) where she will be delivering a workshop on "Exploring Boundaries and Peace through Expressive Arts". You can be part of this conversation, deep-diving into the connection between the arts and peace! Discover the event and register here!

 

__________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Ignacio Packer 2023

IGNACIO PACKER is Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, a Swiss private charitable foundation with the mission to provide a safe and privileged space to inspire, equip and connect individuals, groups and organizations from around the globe to engage effectively and innovatively in the promotion of trust, ethical leadership, sustainable living and human security. Ignacio has over 30 years of experience in humanitarian work and development issues. He is an expert on human rights and social issues and has been strongly engaged in global advocacy on protection frameworks for migrants and refugees with a particular focus on children and youth.

 

MARUEE PAHUJA is an Expressive Arts Consultant, Process Facilitator, Visual Artist, and Eye-Care Practitioner dedicated to bridging science and the arts to foster healing, leadership, and peace. A core team member of Creative Leadership and consultant with the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, she designs and facilitates arts-based interventions for personal and collective transformation. With over 300 workshops held globally and collaborations with 25+ nonprofits, Maruee brings creativity and compassion to peacebuilding, wellbeing, and leadership. She has spoken at platforms like Geneva Peace Week and the Caux Democracy Forum. A prolific artist with over 5,000 multimedia works, she continues to explore the power of artistic expression to inspire change and resilience across cultures.

 
Said Toumani

With a background in International Public Policy, SAID TOUHAMI is a dialogue-moderator, peace-educator, and chairman of the House of Peace based in the Netherlands where he also contributed to the creation of the public Elementary School of Peace, inspired by Shaykh Khaled Bentounes’ initiative for the Education for a Culture of Peace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

__________________________________________________________________________

 

For #IDC2025, we were proud to collaborate with BeTheLove, the Alliance Internationale des Objectifs du Développement Durable (AIODD), and many others, including the support of the City of Geneva and the Permanent Missions of Bahrain, France, Morocco & the Marshall Islands in Geneva.

 

Photos: Ines Mokdadi, Antonin Lechat, U. Ott Chanu

 

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International Day of Concience 2025: True Peace and Security Begin Within

On 4 April 2025, the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation hosted a remarkable event at the Palais des Nations in Geneva: the International Day of Conscience. Co-organised by Sofia Stril-Rever (BeTheL...


Caux Democracy Forum 2025 - Opening Ceremony

programme

Tuesday, 08 July

14:30 - 15:45
Theatre
Opening Ceremony

MODERATION & INTRODUCTION: Exploring the Caux Forum 2025 - Methods and Mindset

  • Ignacio PACKER (UK/Spain/Switzerland), Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

  •  Jean-Marc VIGNOLI (France), violinist

 

WELCOME WORDS

  • Jacqueline COTÉ (Canada/Switzerland), President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

REIMAGINING DEMOCRACY(IES) - Youth Perspectives

  • Hajar BICHRI (Morocco), Creative Leadership, from our parallel youth democracy programme "Reimagining Democracy(ies), introducing a short film presenting their fresh perspectives and hope.

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

ADDRESS by Council of Europe Representative 

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

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

  • Philippe LAZZARINI (Switzerland), UNRWA Commissioner-General

 

A TIME TO REFLECT

  • Joseph DEISS (Switzerland), Swiss Economist and Politician, former President of the Swiss Confederation and former President of the United Nations General Assembly

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

EXPLORING PERSONAL CHANGE & WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CAUX FORUM 2025

  • Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

 

MUSICAL INTERLUDE

 

15:45 - 16:15
Dining Room (2nd floor)
Refreshments

16:15 - 17:45
Parallel Sessions: Integrity - Trust - Courage

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

 

SESSION 1: REVITALIZING DEMOCRACY - INTEGRITY

Help us explore together the role of integrity as a democratic value. Bring your experience to the table and share your stories as we un pack the complex and timely question regarding the importance of integrity in revitalising democracy.

  • WHERE: Caux Palace Theatre (4th floor)
  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

WITH:

  • Ambassador Christian GUILLERMET-FERNÁNDEZ (Costa Rica), Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations in Geneva
  • Corinne MOMAL-VANIAN (France), Executive Director, Kofi Annan Foundation
  • Dilara BAYARAK (Switzerland), Lawyer & Member of Grand Council of Geneva, Switzerland
  • Shukria BARAKZAI (Afghanistan), Politician, Journalist & Women’s Rights Advocate
  • Elder Alvin MANITOPYES (Canada), Co-Founder Awotaan Native Women’s Shelter and the Plains Indian Cultural Survival School

 

CO-MODERATION:

  • Sarah NOBLE (Canada/Switzerland), Head of Global Engagement, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Jonas TRUNEH (UK), Creative Leadership & Project Development Officer at Triangle

 

____________________________________________________________________________________

 

SESSION 2: REVITALIZING DEMOCRACY - TRUST

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

  • WHERE: Main Hall (4th floor)
  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: French, KoreanAI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

WITH:

  • Ambassador Nathalie CHUARD (Switzerland), Director of DCAF - Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance
  • Roohullah SHINWARI (Afghanistan), Head of External Relations at AFA
  • Anas ANSAR (Bangladesh), Senior Researcher at the Arnold-Bergstraesser-Institut, University of Freiburg, Germany
  • Jordan DAVIS (USA), RTS Correspondent in the USA and host of “Democracy! Démocratie!”

 

CO-MODERATION:

  • Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Sidra RASLAN (Syria), Creative Leadership & Amplify Impact Partner Sustainability Program Support and Community Lead at HP 

 

____________________________________________________________________________________

 

SESSION 3: REVITALIZING 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: The Galleries (4th floor wing next to entrance hall)
  • LANGUAGE SPOKEN: English
  • INTERPRETATION: French, AI-supported interpretation (60+ languages)

 

WITH:

  • Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA aka GADO (Kenya), Graphic journalist, Cartoonist, Animator & TV Producer
  • Konstantine GAGNIDZE (Georgia), Founder & President of JEF Georgia
  • Hamza GHANDOUR (Lebanon), Life Coach and Peacebuilder, youth from Lebanon
  • Bahistha NOHTANI (Afghanistan), Dentist, Women's Rights Activist & Co-Founder of Afghanistan Women's Rights Association (AWRA)
  • Shahida TULAGANOVA (Uzbekistan), Producer & Director

 

CO-MODERATION:

  • John BOND (Australia/UK), Journalist & Author, Initiatives of Change
  • Manuela GARAY (Canada), Creative Leadership

 

17:45 - 19:00
Terrace (2nd floor)
Reception / Caux Peace Park Inauguration / Vernissages

17:45: Opening Reception

 

__________________________________________________

 

18:00 - 18:10: Caux Peace Park Inauguration

WITH:

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

More information about the Caux Peace Park as part of the Global Peace Parks Initiative

 

__________________________________________________

 

18:30: Vernissages & Invitation to visit the three Caux Palace Expos

WITH:

  • Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes - Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change
  • Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA / Gado (Kenya), Graphic journalist, independent editorial cartoonist, animator, and TV producer

 

EXPO 1: "Dialogues on Humanity"

An exhibition produced thanks to a partnership between Photo Elysée - Lausanne, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Where: Caux Palace Esplanade (gardens)

 

__________________________________________________

 

EXPO 2: "Democracy? What democracy?!"

An exhibition with press cartoons by Godfrey MWAMPEMBWA aka GADO (Kenya) and Nadia KHIARI, alias Willis from Tunis (Tunisia).

Where: The Galleries (4th floor wing next to entrance hall)

 

__________________________________________________

 

EXPO 3: "Nuclear Cries Through Innocent Eyes"

A powerful art exhibit that brings to life the emotional and generational impact of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands—seen and expressed through the eyes of young Pacific Islanders. A a collaboration between the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, and the Marshallese Educational Initiative (MEI).

More about our exhibition and their artists

Where: The Galleries (4th floor wing next to entrance hall)

 

 

19:00 - 20:00
Dining Room
Buffet Dinner

20:30 - 22:00
Theatre
Concert: Licia Chery & Raoul Baumann

With:

  • Licia CHERY (Switzerland/Haïti), Author, Singer, Composer, Publisher & Presenter
  • Raoul BAUMANN (Switzerland), Composer, Arranger & Producer

Organised with the support of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation. More about the artists.

 

 

Introduction:

  • Anne-Catherine SUTERMEISTER (Switzerland), Head of Community Engagement, Arts & Training Programmes - Switzerland, Caux Initiatives of Change

 

Followed by refreshments in the Main Hal

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

With:

Tsvetana PETRUSHINA, Singer, Composer, Vocal Coach

 

Caux and the Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations: Pioneering Minority Rights and Embracing Unity in Diversity

Co-produced by Christoph Spreng and Ulrike Ott Chanu

29/03/2025
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Co-produced by Christoph Spreng and Ulrike Ott Chanu

 

On 29 March 2025, Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations of 1955 mark their 70th anniversary—a milestone with lessons that extend far beyond Denmark and Germany. History has shown that minorities often bear the brunt of conflict, repeatedly treated as outsiders or expendable pawns in power struggles. The Declarations acknowledge this injustice and emphasize the need for societies to confront their own role in discrimination and division—an essential step in peacebuilding and sustaining democracy. At a time when democratic values are under increasing strain worldwide, the principles behind these declarations serve as a powerful reminder that peace requires both justice and self-reflection. 

Christoph Spreng, advisor to the Standing Committee CINGO and co-organiser of the Caux Democracy Forum, reflects on the significance of the Declarations.

 

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At the recent World Forum for Democracy in Strasbourg, a young student from Georgia surprised me because he knew right away what I was talking about when I mentioned the Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations of 1955 which will be celebrating their 70th anniversary on 29 March this year.

In the aftermath of World War II, tensions between Germany and Denmark remained high, particularly in the border region of Schleswig-Holstein and Southern Jutland, home to both Danish and German minorities.

In this context, the Caux Palace in Switzerland, through the international conferences organised by Initiatives of Change (formerly Moral Re-Armament), became a vital space for dialogue. Between 1946 and 1950, it hosted 888 Danish and 3,113 German visitors, including key figures seeking to rebuild trust and cooperation across national and cultural divides.

 

Minority Map Europe (source reddit)
Minorities, native peoples and ethnic groups in Europe (source: reddit, credit: Michel Bolloré-Pellé)

 

The encounters at the Caux Palace were more than just a meeting place—they were a catalyst for action. Personal initiatives emerged, such as Danish educators moving south across the border to work in Flensburg to support the recovery through education.

Another striking example was Urte Hvidt, a Dane of German origin, who faced hostility as a child due to her background. Her family’s journey of healing, supported by Initiatives of Change, led them to establish a house near the border as a meeting place, demonstrating how individual efforts contributed to a broader transformation in attitudes.

The encounters at the Caux Palace were more than just a meeting place—they were a catalyst for action.

Beyond grassroots initiatives, the conversations at the Caux Palace also influenced high-level diplomacy. Informal meetings in Copenhagen and Hamburg, facilitated by Initiatives of Change members, played a crucial role in concluding the Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations.

Ole Björn Kraft in Caux 1953
Ole Bjôrn Kraft
Heinrich Hellwege Caux 1950
Heinrich Hellwege

Danish leader Ole Björn Kraft and German cabinet member Heinrich Hellwege, both attendees of Caux conferences, explored the resolution to their respective minority issues. This led to the idea of independent but simultaneous Declarations rather than an international treaty. This vision quickly gained support, culminating in the signing of the Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations by Danish Prime Minister H.C. Hansen and German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer on 29 March, 1955.

Seventy years later, the Bonn-Copenhagen model remains a testament to the role of active listening and dialogue in establishing minority rights. As political polarisation and repression increase in many places, the Declarations of 1955 serve as a clue to upgrade the value of unity in diversity and serve as a reminder that reconciliation, rooted in trust and personal engagement, is key to democratic values and resilience.

Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations stamps (source: Wikipedia)
German stamps commemorating the 30th and 50th anniversary of the declarations. For both celebrations, similar stamps were issued in Denmark. (source: Wikipedia)

 

The upcoming Caux Democracy Forum (8–12 July 2025) offers an opportunity to reflect and gain lessons from the past. By focussing on the importance of democratic values and addressing challenges such as disinformation, polarisation, human rights, and declining public trust in institutions, this summer’s forum on democracy continues Caux’s tradition of fostering inclusive and cooperative solutions.

As Rajmohan Gandhi, grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, reminds us: “We are one humanity.”  This message is most likely also the dream of the young students from Georgia met at the World Democracy Forum.

Read more background information about the story of the Bonn-Copenhagen Declarations

As political polarisation and repression increase in many places, the Declarations of 1955 serve as a clue to upgrade the value of unity in diversity and serve as a reminder that reconciliation, rooted in trust and personal engagement, is key to democratic values and resilience.

 

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The Caux Democracy Forum (8–12 July 2025) in Caux, Switzerland, aims to inspire, equip, and connect individuals and organisations dedicated to strengthening democracy, human rights, and civic engagement globally.

Find out more and register now

 

 

 

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