Caux Democracy Forum 2025: Opening Ceremony

Join us at the Opening Ceremony of the Caux Democracy Forum at the Caux Palace, Switzerland!
 

Venue: Caux Palace, Switzerland
Time: 8 July 2024 - starting at 14:30 CEST
Cost: CHF 70.-/person (including reception, dinner & concert)
 

About the Opening Ceremony

Join over 300 changemakers from across the globe for the Opening Ceremony of the second edition of the Caux Democracy Forum 2025 to explore the values that shape and sustain democracy.  As democracy faces unprecedented global challenges, this gathering offers a vital space to reflect, connect, and act with shared purpose. 

Held in the inspiring setting of the Caux Palace, this event takes place on 8 July, starting at 14:30 CEST. After the welcoming and keynote addresses, participants will be able to choose from three interactive sessions. The programme will continue with the inauguration of the Peace Parks Initiative in Caux, alongside opportunities to visit exhibitions presented during the Caux Forum, and will conclude with a networking reception and jazz concert organised in collaboration with the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation.

Organised by Caux Initiatives of Change in partnership with Initiatives of Change International, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and OHCHR, the Opening Ceremony will welcome an in-person audience of around 300 participants and will also be streamed online.

Whether you are attending the full four-day residential Forum or just this event, we invite you to join us — either in person or virtually — for a day of meaningful exchanges and cultural experiences.

Revitalizing Democracy - One Humanity 

As we spotlight the essential values needed to revitalize democracy in Europe and across the world, we willl hear from visionary leaders tackling the pressing challenges of democracy, humanitarian law, and multilateral cooperation. This event will spotlight the courage to lead in crisis, the clarity to stay true to one’s mission, and the values that guide us when the path is unclear. 

Following an opening address from Jacqueline COTÉ, President of Caux Initiatives of Change, we are honoured to welcome key voices shaping the democratic landscape, including: 

• Philippe LAZZARINI, Commissioner-General of UNRWA, who brings deep insights from the frontline of humanitarian law and multilateral cooperation. 

• Ambassador Francesca CAMILLERI VETTIGER, Chair of the Committee of Ministers’ Deputies, Malta's Permanent Representative to the Council of Europe who will speak to Europe’s shared values and collective commitment to democracy and the rule of law.  

• Joseph DEISS, prominent Swiss economist and politician, former President of the Swiss Confederation and former President of the United Nations General Assembly will offer his reflections on global challenges and the urgent need for unity under the banner of One Humanity. 

• Youth leaders and changemakers from our parallel youth democracy programme "Reimagining Democracy(ies), who will introduce a short film presenting their fresh perspectives and hope. 

The Opening session will be moderated by Ignacio PACKER, Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, with music by Jean-Marc VIGNOLI.

Interactive Sessions 

The day will feature three interactive sessions designed to deepen dialogue, each framed by a leading question connected to the core values we will explore throughout the Forum. These conversations bring together civil society, policymakers, business leaders, academics, artists, and grassroots changemakers in an open exchange of ideas, commitments, and pathways forward! 

Join us - we would love to hear from you!

SESSION 1: Is empathy overrated and underplayed in an interconnected world? 

In a time when our lives are more entwined than ever, the role of empathy can seem both crucial and, at times, questioned. We’d love to hear your perspective: Has empathy proven to be a strength or a stumbling block in your experience? How do we balance empathy with other priorities in a fast-paced, globalized society? And in what ways can empathy help — or hinder — relationships across a global society?

Help us explore together, bring your experience to the table and share your stories as we unpack this complex and timely question.

WHERE: to be defined

Stay tuned for our inspiring speakers & facilitators

SESSION 2: How do you rebuild trust between nations and people once it's been broken? 

Trust, once fractured, can seem almost impossible to restore — yet history shows us it can be done through dialogue, courage, and mutual understanding. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences: Have you witnessed or been part of a journey where trust was slowly, patiently rebuilt?

We would love to hear from you! Join the conversation and help us explore the pathways toward healing and reconciliation.

WHERE: Caux Palace Theatre

WITH:

• Ambassador Nathalie CHUARD (Switzerland) & Roohullah SHINWARI (Afghanistan): A powerful diplomatic-human story of trust and perseverance.
• Anas ANSAR (Bangladesh)  - A youth perspective on democratic values and return to roots.
• Ambassador Christian GUILLERMET (Costa Rica) -  Reflections on integrity and values in diplomacy.
• Jordan DAVIS (USA) - On air and On edge: a radio correspondent’s journey through America’s Democratic crossroads
• Heinrich PICK (Germany - tbc) - Empathy & Action: A Democracy dialogues experience

SESSION 3: How should individuals behave in a multi-polar world? 

As global power becomes more widely distributed, navigating differences with wisdom, openness, and resilience becomes more important than ever. We want to hear from you: How do you see your role in this evolving landscape?

Share your insights and experiences as we explore what it means to live thoughtfully and responsibly in a changing world.

WHERE: to be defined

Stay tuned for our inspiring speakers & facilitators

Inspiring Change Through the Arts 

Creativity is central to the Caux spirit. This year’s Opening Ceremony includes two powerful exhibitions: 

• DIALOGUES ON HUMANITY
  In collaboration with Photo Elysée - Lausann, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, and the International Committee of the Red Cross, this exhibition provides a thoughtful space for dialogue around humanitarian values and our shared future. 

• DEMOCRACY? WHAT DEMOCRACY?

A timely exhibition featuring forty thought-provoking political cartoons by Gado (Godfrey Mwampembwa) and Nadia Khiari (Willis from Tunis)—offering sharp, courageous commentary on the state of democracy today. Gado will be sharing his story during the parallel sessions. 

Stay tuned to discover more about the exhibitions and the artists.

Inauguration of the Peace Park at Caux 

We are proud to inaugurate the Caux Peace Park in partnership with the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT). 

In the presence of: 

• Jacqueline COTÉ, President of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation
• Olivier GFELLER, Mayor of Montreux 
• Andreas LARENTZAKIS, IIPT - International Institute for Peace through Tourism
• Timothy H. MARSHALL, IIPT - International Institute for Peace through Tourism

A commemorative plaque will be unveiled, marking Caux’s entry into a global network of over 450 Peace Parks dedicated to peace, sustainability, and intercultural understanding. 

Networking in Caux 

The Caux Democracy Forum Opening Ceremony offers opportunities to network, reflect and recharge, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.  

A jazz concert to conclude 

The day will conclude with a beautiful jazz concert in the Caux Palace theatre, with the support of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation. More details to come.  

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Be part of a unique journey 

The Caux Democracy Forum (8–12 July 2025) is more than a conference—it’s a space to unlock your potential, build trust across differences, and co-create a future where democracy can truly flourish. 

At Caux, we believe real change begins in the heart. Democracy is the path. Values are the compass. 

Speakers

Welcome Address & Key Address

JACQUELINE COTÉ (Canada/Switzerland), President Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation

Jacqueline Coté is the President of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation. She was the Director of Public Relations and previously Head of Communications at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva from 2009 to 2021. In that role she was instrumental in building the new campus of the Institute, the Maison de la Paix, as a vibrant centre of conferences and seminars, thus solidifying the reputation and outreach of the Institute in International Geneva and beyond. Prior to that Ms Coté was the Permanent Representative to the UN of the International Chamber of Commerce and also served as Senior Advisor Advocacy & Partnerships to the World Business Council for Sustainable Development.  In the early part of her career, Ms Coté practiced as an international lawyer in Canada and Switzerland and held management positions with multinational companies SGS and DuPont. Ms Coté believes that the global agenda can best be tackled by linking the public, private and non-profit sectors, and that dialogue and empathy are essential tools to achieve the sustainable development goals.  She recently trained as a mediator at Harvard Law School and joined the board of several associations to continue her engagement with International Geneva. Ms Coté has Swiss, Canadian and British nationalities, is a member of the Bar of Quebec and has two grown-up children who share her passion about tackling today’s global challenges in their areas of work.

PHILIPPE LAZZARINI Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)

Philippe Lazzarini was appointed Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on 18 March 2020 by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, following consultations with the Agency’s Advisory Commission. A Swiss national, Mr. Lazzarini brings over 30 years of experience in humanitarian affairs, international coordination, and crisis response across the United Nations, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the private sector. Before his appointment to UNRWA, he served as Deputy Special Coordinator, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Lebanon with the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon (UNSCOL) since 2015. He previously held similar roles in Somalia and was also Deputy Director of OCHA’s Coordination and Response Division. His fieldwork includes leadership roles with OCHA in the occupied Palestinian territory, Somalia, Angola, and Iraq. Prior to joining the UN in 2003, Mr. Lazzarini worked with the ICRC for a decade in several conflict zones, including Rwanda, Angola, Sarajevo, Southern Sudan, Gaza, and Beirut. He also held a senior marketing position at Union Bancaire Privée in Geneva. Mr. Lazzarini holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Neuchâtel and an MBA from the University of Lausanne. He is married with four children. (photo & more info)

 

FRANCESCA CAMILLERI VETTIGER,  Permanent Representative of Malta to the Council of Europe

Ambassador Francesca Camilleri Vettiger was appointed Permanent Representative of Malta to the Council of Europe on 19 June 2023. She currently serves as Chair of the Executive Committee of the Council of Europe’s North-South Centre. Prior to this role, she was Deputy Permanent Representative and Legal Advisor at Malta’s Permanent Representation to the Council of Europe from 2019. Before that, she coordinated International Human Rights Law matters at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion in Valletta. In 2016, she was posted to Geneva as Senior Policy Officer at Malta’s Permanent Representation to the UN and other international organizations, representing Malta at the World Trade Organization during Malta’s EU Council Presidency preparations. Earlier, she served as Legal Advisor and Coordinator on EU and Local Parliament Affairs to Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister. She led a legal team to draft key legislative reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and the separation of powers in line with Council of Europe recommendations. Before joining the public service, she worked at PiscoPartners law firm in Valletta and Zurich. Ambassador Camilleri Vettiger holds a Doctor of Laws from the University of Malta, an LL.M. in Public International Law from Utrecht University, and an MSc in Global Health Policy from the University of London.

 

JOSEPH DEISS (Switzerland), Economist & Politician

Joseph Deiss is a Swiss economist and politician affiliated with the Christian Democratic People's Party (CVP/PDC). He began his political career in the Grand Council of Fribourg in 1981, later serving as mayor of Barberêche (1982–1996) and as a member of the Swiss National Council (1991–1999). Deiss was a member of the Swiss Federal Council from 1999 to 2006, heading first the Department of Foreign Affairs (1999–2002), where he spearheaded Switzerland’s successful campaign to join the United Nations, and then the Department of Economic Affairs (2003–2006), where he played a leading role in WTO negotiations and chaired the Group of Ten (G-10) countries.

He was President of the Swiss Confederation in 2004 and served as President of the 65th Session of the United Nations General Assembly from 2010 to 2011, the first Swiss national to hold this post. Academically, Deiss holds a doctorate in economics and social sciences and was a professor and dean at the University of Fribourg. After leaving government, he has held numerous board and consultancy roles in Swiss and international companies. Deiss is married and has three children. (photo: http://www.parlament.ch)

 

Moderator

IGNACIO PACKER, Executive Director, Caux Initiatives of Change

Ignacio Packer is Executive Director of the Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation, a Swiss private charitable foundation with the mission to provide a safe and privileged space to inspire, equip and connect individuals, groups and organizations from around the globe to engage effectively and innovatively in the promotion of trust, ethical leadership, sustainable living and human security. Ignacio has over 30 years of experience in humanitarian work and development issues. He is an expert on human rights and social issues and has been strongly engaged in global advocacy on protection frameworks for migrants and refugees with a particular focus on children and youth.

 

 Music

JEAN-MARC VIGNOLI (France), Violinist

Jean-Marc Vignoli is a musician and lives in France. After training as both a violinist and an engineer, and a long career in industry, he (re)discovered the path to his own creative expression. For the last ten years or so, he has been living and sharing the mysteries of sound, improvisation and creativity and has also recorded several CDs. Jean-Marc Vignoli describes himself as a 'tailor-made' violinist. The music he plays is inspired by the message, the mood and the moment in which it takes place. Having become aware of the therapeutic dimension of music, he has turned his attention to the dimension of sound that soothes, relieves and harmonises, helping to transform and heal the human being in intimate contact with nature. 

Parallel Sessions

AMBASSADOR NATALIE CHUARD (Switzerland), Director of DCAF - Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance

Ambassador Nathalie Chuard did her studies in Arts and Political Sciences in Switzerland and Russia. In 2000, she started her career at the Swiss NGO Terre des hommes and took on a variety of postings abroad, including in Afghanistan, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Madagascar, and the Middle East. She joined the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs in 2005 and, as a Swiss Diplomat, served among other positions as Deputy Head of the Human Rights Section in Berne and Political Coordinator at the Mission of Switzerland to the United Nations in New York. From 2018, she headed the Middle East and Northern Africa Division (Humanitarian Aid) of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. From 2020 to 2023, she was the Ambassador of Switzerland to Bangladesh. She speaks French, German, English, and Russian. Joining DCAF in March 2023, Nathalie Chuard is the first woman appointed as Director of DCAF - Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance.

 

ANAS ANSAR (Bangladesh), Senior Researcher at the Arnold-Bergstraesser-Institut, University of Freiburg, Germany

Dr. Anas Ansar is a senior researcher in the Asia programme at the Arnold-Bergstraesser-Institut (ABI), University of Freiburg, Germany. In addition to his research role, he lectures on Migration and Identity Politics at the Catholic University of Applied Sciences in Mainz, Germany. Dr. Ansar holds both a bachelor's and a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh and completed his PhD from the University of Bonn, Germany. His current work delves into the diaspora resistance against authoritarian regimes in Asia with a particular focus on youth political movements in Bangladesh.

JORDAN DAVIS (USA), RTS Correspondent in the USA and host of “Democracy! Démocratie!”

Jordan Davis is a Washington-based correspondent for Swiss public broadcasting (RTS), where he shares coverage of U.S. politics, foreign policy, and social issues. Raised in the United States, he draws on that deep familiarity in his reporting, including the podcast "Democracy! Démocratie!", which explored the state of American democracy ahead of the 2024 election. Throughout his career, Jordan has reported from the front lines of major news events across several continents, working in both French and English. His work combines field reporting with global perspective, bringing international audiences a grounded view of American political life.

AMBASSADOR CHRISTIAN GUILLERMET-FERNÁNDEZ, Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations in Geneva

Ambassador Christian Guillermet-Fernández is the Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations in Geneva. He has been a career diplomat in the Costa Rican foreign service since 1998 and, from April 2020 to June 2023, was appointed as Deputy Minister of Multilateral Affairs. He was Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative at the Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations in New York (2019-2020), Director General of Foreign Policy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica (2016- 2018), Deputy Director General of Foreign Policy (2015-2016), Deputy Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the United Nations in Geneva (2010- 2015), Deputy Permanent Representative and Political Coordinator during Costa Rica's membership in the Security Council at the Permanent Mission of Costa Rica to the United Nations in New York (2008-2009) and Director General of Foreign Policy after working with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva and in Santiago, Chile as Regional Representative a.i. of the High Commissioner (2006-2008). During his diplomatic career, he worked as Chair-Rapporteur of the United Nations Open-ended Working Group on the Right to Peace, among others. In addition, he has collaborated extensively with different universities and think tanks and has written for prestigious peer-reviewed journals worldwide.

ROOHULLAH SHINWARI, Head of External Relations at AFA

Fluent in English, Pashto/Persian, Urdu, Finnish, and Russian, Roohullah Shinwari was appointed Head of External Relations at AFA in January 2024. Prior to this role, he served as Programme Officer for the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO) in Afghanistan until April 2022. With over 25 years of experience in humanitarian work and development, Roohullah Shinwari has held several leadership positions, including a five-year term as Country Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan with the Terre des Hommes International Federation. He has also worked as Project Coordinator for the Terre des Hommes Foundation, senior engineer for LBG/USAID, lecturer for Afghan universities based in Pakistan, and as a member of the Community Health Training Group. Roohullah Shinwari  is an expert in humanitarian aid, rural WASH, rapid response, public health, and broader development issues and brings strong skills in teamwork, critical analysis, leadership, and problem-solving to every role.

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 Caux Peace Parks Inauguration

OLIVIER GFELLER, Mayor of Montreux

Olivier Gfeller is the current mayor (syndic) of Montreux, Switzerland, a position he has held since 2021. A member of the Social Democratic Party (PSS/SPS), Gfeller has played a pivotal role in guiding Montreux through significant recent challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a major cyberattack in 2021. Under his leadership, Montreux has focused on revitalizing its renowned cultural life, supporting local associations, and fostering resilience among residents and businesses. Gfeller has also overseen the municipality’s response to international events, such as welcoming Ukrainian refugees, and has championed projects in sustainable urban development, public transport, and environmental initiatives. In addition to his mayoral duties, he serves as a deputy in the Grand Council of Vaud and sits on the board of the Claude Nobs Foundation, which preserves the legacy of the Montreux Jazz Festival. (photo)

ANDREAS LARENTZAKIS, Executive Director IIPT - International Institute for Peace through Tourism

Andreas Larentzakis, with a distinguished career spanning over four decades in the travel industry, has held various management positions in Australia, the United States, and Europe. In late 1999, he began volunteering with the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT), where he has since worked closely with the institute’s founder to advance its vision and mission. He played an active role in the 2000 Amman Global Summit and the 2003 Geneva Global Summit on Peace through Tourism. Following his retirement from the business world in late 2024, he was appointed Executive Director of IIPT.

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