The World Social Forum in Cotonou (Benin): Taking Stock

The 17 th World Social Forum (WSF), originally scheduled for 4–8 August 2026 in Cotonou, was ultimately held from 6–8 August. Its failure—relative, given that several hundred events and numerous meetings were able to take place—was primarily the result of a policy of obstruction pursued by the Beninese authorities. The Beninese authorities severely hampered its preparation and conduct. On 21 July,…