„It is with great honour and enthusiasm that I welcome you to the Ambrela Development Forum #ADF2024 here in Bratislava, held today, October 10. The Ambrela Development Forum is a unique concept that bridges the gap and fosters collaborations between development and humanitarian actors from public administration, civil society, and international organizations in Central and Eastern Europe. This forum also offers Brussels-based institutions and partners a chance to engage directly in the regions of the EU. Equally importatnt is to ensure we hear the voices of partner countries. I am delighted to say that we have participants from over 25 countries with us today.
This third edition of the Ambrela Development Forum is titled ‚Building Bridges, Building Solutions.‘ While we often take bridges for granted in our daily lives, we must remember that the ability to construct them has evolved over thousands of years. Before the ancient Rome people did not have the ability to build bridges. The mortar and arch were among the two main ingredients that enables the humankind to build structure carrying a pathway or roadway over a depression or obstacle. Today, we must examine the bridges – our communication channels and solutions—within the humanitarian and development sectors. Are these bridges functional? Can we safely cross the obstacles to reach the other side?
In Europe, we are witnessing the largest conflict since World War II due to Russian aggression against Ukraine. The situation in the Middle East, especially in Gaza and Lebanon, escalates daily and overshadows significant crises in places like Sudan. Recent budget cuts by donor countries threaten vital programs and initiatives that support development and humanitarian efforts worldwide. As we navigate this uncertain landscape, collaboration, resource sharing, and advocacy for sustained funding are crucial to meet the growing needs of those affected by crises. In Slovakia and across Europe, societal polarization is alarmingly high. It often feels as if society is divided, standing on opposite sides of a chasm. If there are no bridges, or if few are willing to use them, how can we initiate meaningful dialogue?
Furthermore, the architecture of official development assistance (ODA) is changing. While the EU remains the largest donor, new leadership of the EC under Ursula von der Leyn is on the horizon to be confirmed after the upcoming hearings in the European Parliament. The Global Gateway initiative one of the largest in the EU foreging policy strategies poses many questions on human development and civil society. The UN’s Grand Bargain reflect efforts to build and modernize bridges to effectively respond to looming humanitarian crises.
I am excited to announce that this year, the Ambrela Development Forum features important upgrades that reflect our commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and action:
I encourage each of you to engage fully in our discussions today. Share your ideas, challenge assumptions, and be open to new perspectives. This forum is a safe space for dialogue, where every voice matters. Thank you for being here today, for your commitment to development, and for your willingness to collaborate. I look forward to an inspiring and productive forum, filled with meaningful connections and impactful conversations. Let the Ambrela Development Forum begin!“ – Daniel Kaba, Executive Secretary of Platform for development organizations – Ambrela, Slovakia.
You can re-watch the Welcome speech by Ambrela’s CEO: Daniel Kaba together with other ADF 2024 Opening remarks on Youtube here.
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