From 2 to 6 February, Durban in South Africa, became an important hub for voices advocating for change as a diverse group of indigenous peoples and social movements from the Global South convened for an inspiring conference on Radical Democracy, hosted by the Global Tapestry of Alternatives and the local Amadiba Crisis Committee.

The gathering posed a critical question: Can communities with vastly different struggles unite to forge real solutions to the global crises we face today?

The participants represented a rich tapestry of cultures and histories, including Abahlali Mjondolo from South Africa, the Ogiek from Kenya, the Dzomsa from India, the Cheran community from Mexico, the Mizak from Colombia, the local Zulu nation, and activists from Kurdistan, Myanmar, Panama, Taiwan, Philippines and more. Each group brought unique perspectives shaped by their distinct experiences, yet all shared a common goal: to explore the principles of Radical Democracy and how they can be applied to defend their lands and rights.

Among the voices representing the Kurdish Freedom Movement were the Jinelojî Academy, the Academy of Democratic Modernity, Kongra Star, and Civil Diplomacy Centre. They highlighted the dire situation in North and Eastern Syria, especially the resistance at the Tishrin Dam, emphasizing Abdullah Öcalan’s vision for a free society rooted in women’s liberation and ecological struggle from which books and brochures were distributed to the participants. This perspective resonated with the interventions from the other participants, illustrating the interconnection of struggles across borders.

Over the four days, the conference featured panels and group discussions that fostered collaboration and understanding among the diverse nations and communities present. Under the banner of self-organization, autonomy, and radical democracy, participants engaged in meaningful dialogue about their shared challenges and aspirations.

A particularly poignant moment occurred during a visit to the Amadiba community, where women welcomed the delegation with a ceremonial dance. Their stories of resistance against apartheid and ongoing battles against the ANC government’s mining policies underscored the urgent need to protect their land and water. “How can we give up our water? That is where our gods live,” they declared, a powerful reminder of the spiritual and cultural significance of their land.

A central contribution to the conference was the autonomous women’s assembly where the women representing the communities participated and discussed their most pressing issue. This reiterated the importance of women as leaders of the struggle of indigenous communities and the need to self-organise and to define their own struggle and existence.

The conference also addressed pressing global issues, such as the ongoing war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where transnational corporations are implicated in a bloody conflict over forestry and natural resources. This stark reality served as a rallying cry for participants to unite against the exploitation of their lands and peoples.

The evaluation from the Jinelojî and Academy of Democratic Modernity delegation was clear: "This gathering was not just a meeting of minds but a vital step toward building connections among indigenous and ethnic communities worldwide. It represented a potential pathway toward a world democratic confederalism, where diverse peoples can collaborate to create an alternative future of freedom and dignity.

As we reflect on the outcome of this historic conference, it is imperative to recognize the urgency of the moment. The challenges facing indigenous peoples and social movements are immense, yet the spirit of solidarity and cooperation demonstrated in Durban offers a glimmer of hope. The call for Radical Democracy is not merely an academic exercise; it is a clarion call for action, urging us to stand together in defense of our lands, our rights, and our right to self-determination."