18 & 19 Feb 2024

Berlin – The World Forum on the Future of Democracy, Tech, and Humankind, held on 18 & 19 February 2024 at the Allianz Forum in Berlin and organised by Cinema for Peace, was inaugurated by a lineup of distinguished speakers from around the world. The event, inaugurated by the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon, Founder of Live Aid Sir Bob Geldof, esteemed actress Sharon Stone, Chairman of the Cinema for Peace Jaka Bizilj, and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, artists, and heads of state and concluded by Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton at Theater des Westens, served as a platform to renew democracy and define the future of humanity. It provided an opportunity for encounters that initiate progress on democracy, peace, and technology. To encourage real change, some panels were followed by a lawmaking workshop aimed at developing blueprint legislation for governments around the world. The inaugural session of this groundbreaking event addressed some of the most pressing issues facing democracy, human rights, and technology through 30 panel discussions on the Future of Democracy, Tech, and Humankind.

The opening ceremony was conducted in this running order:

Ali Aslan, international TV presenter and journalist, served as the emcee for the Forum, drawing attention to the 17th consecutive year of decline in global freedom and the rise of authoritarianism worldwide. Aslan highlighted Berlin's historical significance and its role as an ideal backdrop for the Forum's discussions.

Jaka Bizilj, Chairman of the Cinema for Peace Foundation and founder of The World Forum, underscored the critical need to harness technology and artificial intelligence to find innovative solutions to humanity's greatest challenges. Bizilj's three-year concept aims to explore and implement the best answers for a better future.

Nadia Tolokonnikova, founder of Pussy Riot, spoke out against the oppressive actions of Putin's regime and remembered Alexei Navalny as a symbol of hope and resistance. Tolokonnikova emphasised the importance of joy and love in the fight for justice.

Oleksandra Matvichuuk, a Ukrainian human rights lawyer and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, detailed her efforts in documenting Russian atrocities against Ukraine. Matvichuuk called for the establishment of a special tribunal to hold accountable those responsible for aggression and war crimes.

Nick Bostic, the ordinary hero - proving that everyone can make a difference, recognized for his heroism in saving a family from a burning building, shared his belief in the innate goodness within all humans and the significance of individual acts of courage.

Sharon Stone, Hollywood actress and activist, likened the world's current state to a burning house, challenging attendees to act decisively for the sake of future generations. Stone relayed a quote from US President Joe Biden for Cinema for Peace, urging courage to preserve the planet and protect human dignity.

Ban Ki-Moon, 8th Secretary General of the United Nations, reflected on his tenure and the interconnection between peace, security, economic development, and human rights. He advocated for a united voice in promoting a democratic and peaceful world.

Bob Geldof, singer, songwriter, and political activist, critiqued the effectiveness of forums like Munich Security Conference and Davos in effecting change, calling for real-world engagement and action against the backdrop of global dangers.

The World Forum aimed to foster dialogue and action on critical issues, with a focus on democracy, technology, and humankind. The event continued with discussions and workshops designed to generate actionable solutions.

The Forum concluded with a keynote address by Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton at Theater des Westen in a special evening, further underscoring the importance of collective action in facing global challenges.