Annual Forum for Ideas (AFI2023)
The People's Palace, Djibouti
Welcome to the 2023 Annual Forum for Ideas
The Heritage Institute for Policy Studies (HIPS) is delighted to invite you to the 7th Annual Forum for Ideas (AFI), to be held in Djibouti from 18-22 December 2023. The AFI is held under the gracious auspices of H.E. Ismail Omar Guelleh, the president of the Republic of Djibouti.
The Annual Forum for Ideas is a deliberative and inclusive platform aimed at fostering dialogue on key policy matters impacting the Horn of Africa. In that spirit, HIPS convenes prominent policymakers and a spectrum of opinion leaders, such as scholars, researchers, practitioners, civil society leaders and private sector executives for a three-day discourse on the theme. Ahead of the AFI, HIPS commissions academic papers through a competitive and transparent process for scholars to present at the conference.
This year’s theme is: “Fostering a Culture of Peace in the Horn: Advancing Conciliation and Social Cohesion among Somalis.” The theme was selected against a backdrop of rising tensions and conflicts across the Somali territories in the Horn of Africa. The AFI is a golden opportunity to reflect and present innovative conciliation approaches grounded in cultural, political, economic, and religious initiatives.
The event will commence with keynote speeches by prominent leaders from across the Horn, including senior officials from Somalia, Djibouti Ethiopia, and Kenya. The day will feature expert academic presentations and high-level panel discussions involving politicians and academics, creating rich and diverse perspectives on the theme.
Day two will focus on presenting approximately 20 commissioned papers, followed by breakout sessions for in-depth discussions. The day will conclude with a plenary session where rapporteurs will present key outcomes for participant contributions and approval.
The final day, a half-day session, will include additional panel discussions and the closing ceremony, featuring remarks by high-level dignitaries from Horn countries. The conference communiqué will be presented, followed by closing remarks and a lunch gathering.
Please note that a full program and agenda will be circulated in due course.
Please confirm your availability to attend #AFI2023 by clicking “register” and providing the required information, such as your full name, passport number, departure city or airport, email, and Telephone number before 27 November 2023.
Organizing Committee,
HIPS
