This article was originally published by the WSF Team on the World Social Forum 2026 website. Read the original here: [URL].
This is a strong signal sent to the international community. The traditional chiefs of Benin, gathered in an extraordinary assembly, have decided to actively engage in the process of organizing the World Social Forum Cotonou 2026.
This unprecedented alliance between the guardians of African traditions and the actors of global civil society perfectly illustrates the spirit of the WSF: building bridges between different cultures, knowledges, and forms of social organization.
The traditional chiefs will bring their network, their wisdom, and their community legitimacy to the mobilization of local populations and the welcoming of international visitors. Their participation reflects the dimension deeply rooted in African realities that the WSF 2026 in Cotonou will take.
This article was originally published by the WSF Team on the World Social Forum 2026 website. Read the original here: [URL].