Alliance for a responsible, plural and united world

World citizens assembly

Lille - December 2-10, 2001

Socioprofesionnal Group

FARMERS and FISHERMEN 

The first day was devoted to the expression of the most important challenges and propositions for the future. There were many people in this group (more than 30 people). We used 6 languages to work: French, English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and Swailli. With our system of technically adapted small boxes and headphones, we were able to produce this wonder and also with the help of efficient interpreters (young students in interpreting). 

The themes that came out of these expressions are very close to those in the proposition book that was written before the meeting at Lille by farming leaders who are linked to the world APM network, and within the context of the preparation of the World Farmers' Meeting.

The group worked well with the farmers and the fishermen who agreed on many points.
Before the meeting at Lille, there had been a presentation of the work performed by the farmers and the fishermen  and of the future initiatives , especially the World Farmers' Meeting which must take place from May 9 th to 15th 2001.

Tuesday afternoon was devoted to the work on the charter of responsibilities. The group expressed an interest, but it was not such a profound agreement to adopt it. Nevertheless, there were no major critics about this text. “ We need time to put up with or reject that kind of text ”, said a fishing  leader, “ It can have too many consequences ”. Reflexion and enrichments were expressed. Yet, the text was a work basis worthy of interest. The debate was concentrated on whether a common ethics was possible or not. The people wondered whether this text would be proposed for its adoption during the assembly at Lille. It seemed to be too early for the group.