The Power of Togetherness
International Civil Society Week connects concerned citizens across sectors, themes, regions and backgrounds to tackle the world's most pressing challenges.
What is International Civil Society Week?
International Civil Society Week (ICSW) is a global gathering for civil society to connect, discuss and debate shared solutions to global challenges. Using a ‘partnered’ approach, multiple organisations pool their resources to convene a diverse international group of leaders in civil society issues. The global partnership aims to create connections that bring about positive social change, share tools that enhance citizen action, and celebrate people power. Each ICSW is convened under a specific theme that the gathering explores in-depth.
From 8 to 12 April 2019, CIVICUS and Civic Initiatives will co-host ICSW 2019 in Belgrade, Serbia. This year’s theme – ‘The Power of Togetherness’ – explores ways that people and organisations around the world can, and are, working together to enable and defend spaces for civic action in a world where global transformations are reshaping how civil society functions. This includes, among other deliberations, how we ensure resilient and sustainable civil society at all levels and unlock the power of collective action.
International Civil Society Week 2019
PROGRAMME
The 3-day ICSW 2019 programme , will centre along three interrelated tracks:(1) Bridges Track aiming to connect participants and build alliances, (2) Streets Track exploring the sources and forces of civic action, and (3) Stairs Track focusing on sharing tools, resources and skills that strengthen people’s participation around the world.
Watch this space for the full programme launch in January 2019.
REGISTRATION
Registration fees include full access to 30-plus event sessions, an opening ceremony and reception on 8 April, and lunches and coffee/tea breaks from 10-11 April.
- Standard fees: $250
- Member fees: $220 (exclusive to CIVICUS, BCSDN and Black Sea NGO Forum Voting Members)
- Group Fees - Every fifth member of the group is free
- Sponsored Fees - Will be placed on waiting list and informed of the status of their request by 1 February
Register online here.
VISAS
Participants who require visas should apply from 10 January using the ICSW 2019 visa application procedure. Please note that all visa applications must be submitted before 1 March. The ICSW team will liaise with Serbian Immigration officials to facilitate your visa application after your registration has been approved and the registration fees have been paid.
LOCATION
The Balkans - a region of 11 countries and 55 million people - is rich in diverse cultures, ethnicities, faiths, communities and opinions. Its civil society knows what it means to create the conditions for cooperation, even in the face of uncertainty. Belgrade is an ideal location to bring together a diversity of actors interested in working together for social change.
Watch this space for detailed information on the meeting location, flights, accommodation and health and safety considerations.