The Other Side of the World

by Claudio Pozzi | Sep 17, 2025 | from our networks, Initiatives

The Courage of Peace 6

We receive and gladly publish the presentation and program of an event dedicated to learning about what is moving in the global world outside of the conflicts that have been in the news in recent years.

Peace is a central theme for WWOOF, we pursue it daily through our practices, it is probably right to welcome more ongoing debate and initiatives that can help us better understand and make bolder choices.

“Dearly beloved, this is it. The Courage for Peace event is back, now in its sixth national edition.

From September 25 to 28 we will meet again in Sesto Fiorentino, in a new venue that is welcoming, full of history and easily accessible.

We decided to title this edition:

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD.

A title that is already a statement of intent: to turn our gaze where we do not usually look. If in previous editions we focused from different angles on the conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine/Middle East, today we want to try to understand what is happening outside our little West, as the world changes. And fast.

We live in a time when new players are appearing on the global stage. Continents, peoples, cultures, and worldviews that we often know little about, or worse, are told in a distorted way, always filtered through the lens of the “dangerous other,” the “enemy to be contained” around which wars are justified.

Those who fight for peace have a duty to know.

We believe it is time to listen, study, understand, and compare.

We need more dialogue, more knowledge, more courage of the truth.

That is why in this edition we have built a program full of insights, questions and analysis.

It will be an intense edition, with seminar moments, debates, testimonies and real confrontations. Without simplifications.

Among the guests and hosts who have already confirmed their presence will be: Francesca Albanese, Elena Basile, Moni Ovadia, Roberta De Monticelli, Raniero La Valle, Domenico Gallo, Angelo d’Orsi, Luisa Morgantini, Father Alex Zanotelli, Ginevra Bompiani, Danilo Della Valle, Pino Arlacchi, Vauro, Beniamino Deidda, Francesco Sylos Labini, Lavinia Marchetti, Francesca Spigarelli, Raffaella Bolini, Don Carlo Maurizi, Roberto Musacchio, and many/others.

Different voices, but united by the courage of peace and the courage of truth.

The program will consist of seven thematic sessions, which will address:

Palestine
The BRICS, with a focus on South Africa, Brazil, Russia, Iran and India
China
We and others: Europe and the West vs. the East
Censorship – open microphone a* censorat* of peace
On the path of Giorgio La Pira, to rebuild solidarity among peoples
The courage of truth – Disarma’s proposal

In addition, two special focuses:

A discussion among the protagonists of the peace movement in Italy

an in-depth discussion with the No NATO Bases and Against Rearmament committees.

On Sunday morning, we will close with an open discussion assembly where Disarma will present a proposal to associations, political forces and movements.

And then there will be association booths, book stalls, refreshment areas with popular prices, and a welcome service for those from outside.

Admission is free and no reservation is needed.

We will send all logistical details (transportation, hospitality, space) in early September.

Now, an important request.

As always, we organize everything in a collective and supportive spirit.

We do not receive public funds. Therefore, we ask you, if you can, to contribute as well.

Even a little help makes a difference.

Here is the IBAN to contribute:

IT06 K050 1812 8000 0002 0000 232

Made out to: Courage for Peace

Causale: Sesto Fiorentino

Mark the dates, spread the word, involve those close to you.