Working Group 12: Social Movements, Civil Society and Conflicts
Chair: Dr Tomi Järvinen (tomi.jarvinen[at]worldvision.fi)
Coordinator: Mr David Korpela (david.korpela[at]jyu.fi)
This diverse working group focused on grassroots initiatives and mass movements within the context of crises and conflicts. Presentations highlighted the resilience of individual people acting collectively to bring about change, emphasizing the fact that civil society is both a victim and an actor in complex emergencies. Individual people are affected by the adverse conditions of crisis but have the ability to adapt their lives to meet new challenges. The power of individuals harnessing the power of the Internet in Burma to create international solidarity and bring about reform was mirrored by the use of videography to reduce violence and increase cohesion in troubled Colombian communities. Empowerment emerged as a central theme in the ability of individuals to respond to crises. An empowered individual dares to take risks and adapt to crises, increasing their ability to overcome hardship. Empowered individuals dare to mobilize people to form social movements. The power of people takes many forms in a variety of different situations and circumstances but it must never be underestimated as a driving force for change.
- Proceedings by David Korpela