Unheard Voices on the Future(s)

As part of the United Nations’ Civil Society Conference (9-10 May, Nairobi) UNESCO-MOST BRIDGES Coalition collaborated with Globethics and The Club of Rome in an intergenerational collaborative panel: Unheard Voices on the Future(s). Panellists included Luci Attala, UWTSD and Director of the UNESCO-MOST BRIDGES UK Hub, Fadi Daou, Keshoe lsaiah and Ashley Kitisya and moderator Nolita Thina Mvunelo.

“Unheard Voices” explored perspectives that are often overlooked in discussions about shaping future(s) with the aim of encouraging creative, lively and intergenerational exchanges focused on the processes and assumptions currently associated with future shaping. In so doing, it aimed to explore how global conversations are currently being mobilised and used a symbolic seat at the table for an individual not yet born to represent the voice from the future. This device is employed to demonstrate the complications associated with creating futures for those unable to represent their views, and also attends to the concern that many are not effectively included in conversations, aiming to amplify marginalized perspectives in future shaping dialogues. In the spirit of 'courageous criticism’ UNESCO-MOST BRIDGES Coalition is keen to be at the forefront of encouraging innovative thinking towards including voices that are yet to be heard.

For a comprehensive overview of the Civil Society conference, which is leading up to the Summit of the Future in September, visit https://www.un.org/civilsociety/2024UNCSC