WSF 2004: World Dignity Forum

20/01/2004
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Dignity as a world necessity is one of the outstanding themes of the 4th World Social Forum, taking place in India. The World Dignity Forum was one of the most crowded events, which also covered issues such as castes and racism. This Forum was organized by the Dalits, the so-called "untouchables", who in the hierarchical Indian caste system are the most oppressed group, representing more than 160 million people. Once again, Globalization was on trial, as neoliberal policies have reduced workers benefits and the welfare state. One of the issues analysed was that of migration, which has been forced on thousands of workers and that affects people's dignity. The critical relationship between caste, class and race oppression was also addressed. "Distortions of the term have been central in structuring patterns of domination and subordination all over the world", states the Forum synthesis document. "At the same time, the oppressed are increasingly articulating their distinct, different and multiple identities and negotiating for their own space in the public sphere". The relationship with gender was also underlined, and the need to ensure women's dignity, in the face of patriarchal power that has appropriated "control over women's labour body and sexuality, under the garb of a discourse of dignity and honour". With respect to fundamentalist forces, they threaten to "rupture the fabric of society" and undermine legal democratic norms, and they exercise violence against religious minorities, which is an assault on their dignity, it was denounced. In the struggle for dignity, "employment, education, health, freedom from hunger, guaranteed livelihood, social security and related economic and social rights are crucial in ensuring a dignified existence to all human beings", it was affirmed. In this sense, it is necessary to forge alliances among likeminded individuals and groups at the global level. "A perspective from the subalterns and the marginal, and the recovery of a democratic state is crucial for ensuring minimum conditions for dignity. Dignity means freedom to live in peace, health and hope". The presentations at the World Dignity Forum were interspersed with artistic presentations. Notably, in this 4th World Social Forum, diversity, beyond being a theme of debate, is palpably present. In the panels on racism, castes or issues such as land and agriculture, the different communities enter the Halls marching and singing, generating an event to mark the presence of each group.
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