ASSOCIATION.
Foyer Futur is a non-profit organisation* based in Cologne, Germany. Its members work in three German states, at two universities and in many projects to realise the association’s vision.
VISION.
We want to create a space for change and transformation in which we think about alternative futures. Our plan is to work towards realising them in a variety of projects. The aim is to radically reshape the crisis-ridden economic and social system: from the prevailing imperial mode of living to a needs-orientated post-growth society. To achieve this goal, we act on the basis of three pillars: COMMUNICATE, CONSULT and CREATE. Each of these pillars represents an essential aspect of our work and commitment. We demand a good life for all within planetary boundaries.
COMMUNICATE.
We believe in the transformative power of education. That is why we create platforms for political decision-making and for a solidary, democratic coexistence. We promote awareness and understanding of degrowth ideas through events and workshops as well as the design and distribution of educational materials. Besides that our work includes scientific research and publications and above all scientific communication at the intersection between the social, climate and sustainability sciences and civil society.
CONSULT.
We aim to influence policy decisions and promote measures to mitigate and adapt to the climate crisis and its consequences, and to strengthen societal resilience. In addition, we offer advice and support for those who are ready to embark on the path towards a more sustainable and just world. From companies to non-profit organisations and local authorities.
CREATE.
As a post-growth society is orientated towards alternative measures of wealth and prosperity, this goes hand in hand with a radical change in infrastructure and societal relations to nature. We develop solutions for this kind of necessary cultural change. This includes providing arts and cultural opportunities and promoting key skills for the future such as resilience and future literacy. This will be practiced through networking such as exploring synergies with educational and research institutions or stakeholders who are close to the goals of our association. We strive to create spaces in which progressive ideas flourish and can be realised through concrete actions.
PROJECTS.
Even before its legal registration, Foyer Futur has been active in numerous projects and accompanies important developments in the degrowth/post-growth movement – not only in Germany, but also internationally. The organisation first highlighted blind spots in degrowth research at the International Degrowth Conference & Conference of the European Society for Ecological Economics in Pontevedra (Spain), where it presented two well-received abstracts. Over the summer, Foyer Futur developed concepts for urban food sovereignty and established links with national and international new economy organisations. Foyer Futur is currently supporting students at various universities in their exploration of degrowth. The organisation is also driving the Beyond Growth platform in Germany and plans to influence the public debate on our socio-economic and ecological future in the coming months.
BACKGROUND.
We met during our studies at the Hochschule für Gesellschaftsgestaltung in Koblenz and are connected to the Karlshochschule International University through Yanni’s PhD project. The project group around Foyer Futur started in September 2023 through self-organised spaces based on the content of their study programme. This reflects our desire to shape society which unites the group and to bring our visions mentioned above to life.
CONTACT.
E-mail: info@foyer-futur.de
*The association is currently still in the foundation phase. The founding meeting and recognition of non-profit status have already taken place, and the final steps for entry in the register of associations have been initiated.