An event for everyone who wants to rethink communication to make it fairer and more inclusive
How can we implement inclusive storytelling in humanitarian communication? And what does it mean to ethically, respectfully, and meaningfully represent social and political issues from Latin America? These are the key questions at the heart of our two-day event “The Ethics of Humanitarian Communication” in Cologne.
Humanitarian issues from Latin America often receive limited attention in international media and when they do, it’s often from a one-sided perspective. With this event, we aim to create a space where voices from Latin America are heard, and their own perspectives, experiences, and concerns are made visible.
Over two days, we’ll bring together NGOs, activists, community members, and interested individuals to reflect on ethical, inclusive, and participatory forms of communication and learn from one another. Through film screenings, workshops, storytelling sessions, and open discussions, we’ll provide a platform for exchange and reflection.
Day 1: Film Screening at Filmpalette Cologne (Friday, June 13)
Together with the Expertise Center for Humanitarian Communication (HuCom), we’ll kick off the event series with a film screening at Filmpalette Cologne.
The evening will feature the documentary “Soul of the Desert” (Alma de Desierto) by Colombian director Mónica Taboada-Tapia. The film follows Georgina, a trans woman from the indigenous Wayúu community in Colombia, on her emotional journey back to her family. It paints a layered portrait of identity, belonging, and the fight for recognition and justice. (The film will be shown in Spanish with English subtitles.)
Before the main feature, we’ll share an exclusive preview of our own documentary filmed in February in Paya, Colombia. The film offers insight into everyday life in the community and invites viewers to reflect on one central question: What does it really mean to be “rich”?
After the screening, we’ll open the floor for feedback, discussion, and shared reflection. We look forward to an inspiring and socially engaged film evening with you!
📍 Location: Filmpalette Cologne, Lübecker Straße 15, 50668 Cologne
🕝 Time: Friday, June 13, 2025, 6:00–8:30 PM
Day 2: Workshop at Kulturbunker Cologne-Mülheim (Saturday, June 14)
On Saturday, we’ll continue our two-day event with a hands-on workshop at Kulturbunker Cologne-Mülheim. Together with HuCom, we invite you to dive deeper into key questions around ethical and inclusive communication in international cooperation, with a special focus on Latin America.
How can participatory storytelling succeed when it’s done with, not about, communities? What principles are needed to make humanitarian communication decolonial and equitable? These and other questions will guide our workshop. In interactive sessions, we’ll share case studies from our work in Colombia, while HuCom will contribute insights from NGO practice and present guidelines for inclusive language and representation.
Who is this workshop for?
NGO staff, students, activists, and anyone interested in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in communication. Drinks and snacks will be provided: Enjoy free coffee and homemade cake from Veedel Pastry Cologne. After the workshop, there will be an informal opportunity to have lunch together nearby—for anyone who wants to keep the conversation going.
📍 Location: Kulturbunker Cologne-Mülheim, Berliner Straße 20, 51063 Cologne
🕙 Time: Saturday, June 14, 2025, 10:00 AM–12:30 PM
🎟️ Admission: Pay what you can
We’re excited to meet you!
Got questions about the events or how to participate? Don’t hesitate to get in touch. We look forward to welcoming you to Cologne! Note: You’re welcome to attend both days, but it’s not required. You can also register for just the film screening or the workshop.
