On the eve of its 7^th edition in Africa, the World Social Forum faces a crucial question: after having raised hope for “another world is possible”, will it be able to accomplish the promise? This question is being addressed with increasing frequency by the participants of the Forums themselves. Open and frank discussion is necessary within the WSF itself by intellectuals and activists coming from multiple realities and sensibilities.

Is Another World Really Possible? Under this title organizations which have participated in the WSF process since it was launched will convene in Nairobi some of the major personalities that have contributed in the construction and definition of the Social Forums’ course. Among others, the Brazilian founders of the WSF, members of the organizing committees of the Mumbai, Bamako, Caracas, Karachi and Nairobi Forums, activists of the African, European and Americas Social Forums, organizers of Social Movements Assemblies, and signers of the Bamako appeal will be invited.

Via this website any person interested in the WSF may submit texts or express their own opinions. Certain personalities engaged in the debates on globalization and its alternatives will be specially invited to contribute.

The seminar in Nairobi, will consist of six sessions (two per day) each dedicated to crucial themes. The Brazilian edition of Le Monde Diplomatique will produce, starting from previous contributions, a special issue titled “Paths for the construction of a new world”. During the 7^th WSF TerraViva newspaper, which has been covering Social Forums since 2001, will undertake special coverage on this initiative.

Tittles suggested below are provisional and they must be improved with contributions from organizations joining the proposal. Each theme will be better defined in sub-titles.

1. Civil Society autonomy: is a new political culture under construction?

2. Folkloristic festival or new articulation space? Which mobilizations have succeeded in these past 7 years?

3. From utopia to institutions: how to go from dreams to real rights?

4. Relations with progressist political parties and governments: independence or hypocrisy?

5. Communication and impact on world public opinion: a message for millions of people or a return to isolation?

6. Future of the WSF: open space or new collective political subject?