Celebrating Liberal Footprints: The 22nd International Academy for Leadership (IAF) Alumni Program
Freedom Gate hosted the 22nd International Academy for Leadership (IAF) Alumni Program, bringing together over 80 distinguished alumni from Pakistan. Held at the Lahore Country Club, Muridke, from October 25 to 27, 2024, this gathering stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of these individuals toward intellectual freedom, liberal values, and global collaboration.
Since the first Pakistani participant attended the IAF in Germany in 1995, the program has played a pivotal role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and advancing liberal political ideals. This year’s alumni event provided a platform for in-depth discussions on democracy, human rights, and governance, tailored to the evolving challenges in contemporary Pakistan. Through interactive dialogues, including panel discussions, a World Café session, and an Open Space for envisioning a liberal future, participants explored ways to strengthen and sustain their contributions to society.
The three-day event commenced with a warm welcome by Birgit Lamm, followed by introductions to new alumni. The inaugural plenary, moderated by Zafarullah Khan, set the stage by reflecting on the liberal roots of Pakistan, featuring an address by Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi. A high-level panel discussion, 'Liberal Choices for Pakistan,' saw esteemed panelists, including Anthony Naveed, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and Zahoor Buledi, deliberate on democracy, human rights, and governance.
The World Café sessions served as a platform for participants to engage in discussions on pivotal topics such as the need for a new Charter of Democracy, the establishment of a Constitutional Court, economic liberalization, and climate and digital rights. Additionally, the Open Space session encouraged alumni to brainstorm innovative strategies for sustaining liberal human capital in Pakistan.
As Freedom Gate steps forward in carrying the legacy of liberal empowerment, this alumni reunion reinforced the importance of collective action in shaping a more open and inclusive society. Emotional yet resolute, the attendees reflected on their journey and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting freedom, tolerance, and progressive change in Pakistan. With an even stronger and renewed motivation, they departed with a shared vision to keep the spirit of freedom alive in Pakistan.
