A meeting place for reflection and debate

London Chapter of Foro Generación del 78

Forum Contemporary is an independent association with the intention of contributing to the dialogue and reflection on significant issues related to humanity and society. Is a place for reflection and debate to be updated about today’s most relevant themes, forge enduring friendships, share exceptional experiences, access outstanding learning programs, and learn from one another.
 

Objectives

 

The objectives of the Forum Contemporary are defined by the intention to disseminate the principles and values listed below.

 

  1. Foster the critical thinking ability around various political, economic, cultural, and international topics.
  2. Create a meeting place that brings together recognized personalities and experts with young professionals.
  3. Promote intergenerational dialogue that enriches the perspectives of both sides.
  4. Bring national and international institutions closer to the youth to encourage greater participation in public matters.
  5. Encourage joint reflection and teamwork among professionals from different countries and cultures.
  6. Promote Spain’s international projection.
  7. Drive the use of new technologies as tools for communication and knowledge.

 

Activities

 

The Association organises various activities that promote learning and reflection.

Colloquiums

These constitute the main activity of the Association. They are organized weekly and feature a prominent figure or an expert as a guest. After a presentation of about 20-30 minutes, an open and relaxed debate is held with a small number of attendees, composed of members and their guests. The systematic rotation of guests promotes the inclusion of new members and the continuous emergence of new perspectives.

Research and Analysis

The Forum Contemporary engages in significant editorial activity, producing articles and research papers for analysis. This activity is focused on international relations, economics and business, politics and social issues, culture and history, and science and technology. The aim is to widely distribute these works through printed and electronic media (website). 

Institutional Visits

To encourage greater involvement in public matters, members are received at key national and international institutions during regular visits. Notable visits include those to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Congress of Deputies, and the NATO General Secretariat.

Travel and Cultural Activities

Organized trips are undertaken to notable national exhibitions and historical sites. Likewise, participation in significant cultural events and activities is promoted.

International Relations

 

The Forum Contemporary is open to the external world, with members fully aware of the substantial benefits of deep understanding of international realities. As such, relationships with international associations and foundations are fostered and cultivated. Notable among these are:

  • Conférence Olivaint (France)
  • Conférence Olivaint de Bélgique (Belgium)
  • Studentenforum im Tönniesteiner Kreis (Germany)
  • The GRIMSHAW Club – London School of Economics (England)
  • Young Diplomats Center (Poland)
  • Efpolit (Slovakia)
  • Conferencia Mariano Otero (Mexico)
  • Fundación Consejo España – Estados Unidos (Spain – United States Foundation)
  • Fundación Ortega y Gasset

 

As an example of its international involvement, a recent study conducted by the Greek association ARSIS on European civil society referred to the Forum Contemporary in the following manner:

“Forum Contemporary is the European organisation that best embodies the idea of the citizen, promoting the development of civil society through pluralistic and democratic participation.”

 

Some of the international activities that are more frequently conducted with the aforementioned associations and foundations are:

International Summer Academy

 

Each association annually organizes an International Summer Academy. Over the course of a week, participants debate a series of international topics, and their conclusions are compiled into a final resolution.

The II International Summer Academy, organized by the Forum Generation of ’78 in Madrid in July 2001, included in its final resolution the desire of all participating associations to establish a permanent international platform to enhance their collaborative activities.

 

North American Young Leaders Programs

 

The Spain – United States Foundation and the Ortega y Gasset Foundation regularly organize visits to Spain for young American leaders. The Forum Generation of ’78 promotes joint activities that provide American visitors with the opportunity to directly engage with young Spanish professionals. Additionally, joint institutional visits are undertaken, such as the one to the Prime Minister’s Office in 2004.