ANOTHER WORLD FOR AFRICA Candido Grzybowski The open space character of the World Social Forum fuels a factory of ideas and alternative proposals to capitalist dominion.

Candido Grzybowski

For the global civil society, the resistance of Africans, who have been subjected to atrocious violence and human rights violations and the devastation of a world system that serves the major corporations and the imperialist powers, is a source of inspiration and strength to carry forward its mission of building ‘other worlds’.

The 7th World Social Forum of Nairobi is a special moment politically and historically. In the face of the severe inequality in the process of globalisation and the logic of terror and the war that feeds it, we continue to expand and create hope like a network of citizens that extends around the planet.

We have the possibility of establishing deep roots in Africa, the cradle of humanity, bringing a new dynamic to the process of the forum. Given that Africa is being neglected by the economic system and the reigning powers, holding the Forum here is a form of radical commitment to the insurgent global civil society.

In its brief history the WSF has shown itself to be an essential site for the emergence of a new political culture. Much of its power derives from its character as an open space, founded in the respect for our diversity and plurality.

The recognition of the principles and the ethical values of freedom of choice and opinion, equality, solidarity, interdependence, participation and shared responsibility, non-violence, the preservation of common goods and nature – all of this fuels the WSF as a factory of ideas and alternative proposals to the devastating and exclusive capitalist dominion.

Disagreements, confrontations, consensus, and dissent are all part of the environment of the Forum, and all contribute to the development of its innovative political culture.

Does this stir up confusion and uncertainty? Yes, at least among those who are watching from the outside. The results of the forums may not please the dominant political status quo and are unlikely to be adopted by the global markets. The dreams, hopes, and ideas that strengthen the civil society are the benefits reaped by those who participate directly in the effort. Immersed in the Forum process, we grow stronger.

Now in Africa, we will dismantle the prevailing vision and rhetoric about a lost and hopeless continent. We will learn from Africa's vibrant culture. Holding the WSF in Africa means filling ourselves with the visions, images, analyses, critiques, demands, and proposals of the social movements and the entities of African civil society.

It is a huge challenge but it is also a great opportunity to bring together what has been divided, to unite without denying diversity and thus strengthen each other mutually.

Candido Grzybowski is director of the Brazilian Institute of Social and Economic Analysis (IBASE) and a member of the International Council of the World Social Forum.