CIDSE celebrates its legacy and sets its vision for the future.
PRESS RELEASE
Brussels, 21 January 2025
CIDSE, the international family of Catholic social justice organisations based in Brussels, is proud to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025. This milestone provides a unique opportunity to reflect on the collective achievements of the past decade, to reaffirm its mission in an evolving global context, and to outline the way forward. These themes were central at last week’s CIDSE Board of Directors meeting, where strategic actions for 2025 were reviewed. This year marks a key moment not only for the CIDSE network, but also for partners, allies, and communities that have shaped and continue to inspire its mission.
Founded in 1965, CIDSE has been at the forefront of addressing global social injustices and advocating for systemic change. For six decades, the network has honoured and promoted its vision and commitment to dignity, equity, and sustainability for all, guided by its mission to advance global social and environmental justice.
“For the past 60 years, CIDSE has stood in solidarity, rooted in Christian principles, and fostered hope for a world where many worlds fit,” said Moema Miranda, lay Franciscan and long-standing partner from Brazil, who was invited to the annual meeting of the CIDSE Board of Directors. “As we enter 2025 – a year of Laudato Si’, a year of the Jubilee, and a pivotal COP – we must hold on to the hope that we are not alone, that we can move forward together, knowing deeply that there is no human soul without trees, no human soul without a human body, and no human body without planet Earth”.
This anniversary is a tribute to the individuals, partners and communities who have shaped CIDSE’s journey. Their commitment has been vital in realising a shared vision of a world where people can thrive in harmony with each other and the environment. This is not only a celebration of achievements but also a moment to assess CIDSE’s impact in the face of growing global challenges.
“In a world where all our struggles are deeply interconnected, every action we take has an impact on local and global realities,” said Caoimhe de Barra, CIDSE President and Trócaire CEO. “At CIDSE, we have embraced our responsibility and our influence to push for policies that deliver justice for all, while amplifying the voices of communities whose perspectives shape our collective future.”
From amplifying the voices of marginalised communities to driving transformative policy change, CIDSE has demonstrated the power of collective action.
Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in promoting climate justice, sustainable food systems, and advocating for corporate accountability, through initiatives such as Change for the Planet – Care for the People, active contributions to the World Social Forums, participation in COPs, and partnerships with grassroots movements and allies from the Global South.
“This anniversary is a testament to the enduring power of solidarity and faith in action. CIDSE has always been a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to amplify the voices of the vulnerable and advocate for systemic change rooted in justice and dignity.” added Bishop Medhin CIDSE Spiritual Advisor during the meeting. “Together, we look forward to continuing this journey, inspired by the Gospel call to serve the marginalised, promote peace, and care for our common home”.
As CIDSE looks to the future, the network remains committed to addressing global issues such as human rights, climate change, corporate accountability and rising inequality. By strengthening collaborations, amplifying grassroots voices and advocating for systemic change, CIDSE aims to build a future where all people can thrive within the planetary boundaries.
To mark this special moment, CIDSE will celebrate its legacy and vision with a series of events, publications and initiatives throughout 2025. Partners, supporters and all those committed to justice and sustainability are warmly invited to join this historic celebration.
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NOTES TO THE EDITORS:
CIDSE is an international family of Catholic social justice organisations. We work with global partners and allies to promote justice, harnessing the power of global solidarity to achieve transformational change for people and the planet. We challenge systemic injustice and its destructive impacts through connecting, mobilising, influencing and telling stories of change. We promote environmentally and socially just alternatives to allow everyone to thrive in our common home. CIDSE’s work is guided by Catholic Social Teaching and Gospel values. www.cidse.org
CIDSE members are: Broederlijk Delen (Belgium), CAFOD (England and Wales), CCFD-Terre Solidaire (France), Cordaid (the Netherlands), Development & Peace (Canada), Entraide et Fraternité (Belgium), eRko (Slovakia), Fastenaktion (Switzerland), FEC (Portugal), FOCSIV (Italy), Partage Lu (Luxembourg), KOO (Austria), Manos Unidas (Spain), Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns (USA), MISEREOR (Germany), SCIAF (Scotland), Trócaire (Ireland), Vastenactie (the Netherlands).
The annual meeting of the CIDSE Board of Directors took place on 15-17 January. On the Directors’ agenda were upcoming events that will shape the network in 2025, in particular CIDSE’s 60th anniversary.
MEDIA CONTACT:
- Annia Klein, CIDSE Communications Officer, klein(at)cidse.org
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
– “Manos Unidas celebra junto a CIDSE su 60 aniversario“