From October 3rd to 5th, Antibes was home to the Let’s Liberate Diversity Forum, which took place during the International Gathering ‘Sow Your Resistance’. With 500 participants from all over the world, this landmark event brought together diverse stakeholders dedicated to agrobiodiversity and seed systems, creating an invaluable space for knowledge sharing, network building, and collaborative action. The forum was organized through a joint effort by Réseau Semences Paysannes (RSP), European Coordination Let’s Liberate Diversity (ECLLD), SOL, and Réseau Semences Paysannes Maralpines (RSPM). Together, these organizations ensured that the event created a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, encouraging collaboration and mutual learning. As a key contributor, ECLLD hosted several workshops focusing on critical themes such as seed storage techniques, collaboration with migrant communities, and seed law reform. While these workshops were a focal point of ECLLD’s contributions, the event as a whole was rich with discussions and insights across a wide range of related topics.
EC-LLD! general Assembly
During the forum, ECLLD also held its General Assembly, a pivotal moment for the network as members had the opportunity to meet in person for the first time in a while. This gathering provided a valuable chance for members to strengthen connections within the ECLLD community and foster new relationships with other organizations present at the event. The Assembly was fruitful and engaging, as it offered space for in-depth discussions on current efforts, including ongoing projects and initiatives and associative life. The in-person format allowed for more personal exchanges and networking, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration in the months to come and reinforcing the sense of community and shared mission among its members.
Strengthening International Networks on Farmers’ Seeds
One of the most compelling sessions organised by EC-LLD! was the workshop on Strengthening and Exchanging Practices Between European and International Networks on Farmers’ Seeds. This session, led by ECLLD alongside representatives from global networks such as FSN China, COASP, Organic Seed Alliance and the Pacific Community, aimed to explore shared challenges and strategies for international cooperation. Participants engaged in small group discussions, laying the groundwork for fostering effective collaborations across actors dedicated to agrobiodiversity and farmers’ seed systems. As a result of this fruitful exchange, ECLLD is now working collaboratively with other organizations to develop a stakeholder map, helping to further strengthen global ties in the farmers’ seed network.
Workshops on Key Themes
In addition to the focus on international collaboration, ECLLD organized several other impactful workshops:
- Seed Storage: Techniques and Principles of Seed Conservation
This workshop explored key techniques to optimize seed storage and extend the lifespan of seeds. Participants engaged in practical demonstrations and discussions on controlling factors such as humidity and temperature, crucial for maintaining seed viability. - Cooperation Between Cultivated Biodiversity Organizations and Migrant Communities
Co-organized with Aegilops and RSP, this workshop focused on building stronger relationships between biodiversity organizations and migrant communities. The session explored how agriculture can be a platform for inclusion and empowerment, with testimonials and participatory discussions highlighting the challenges and opportunities in fostering these connections. - All You Ever Wanted to Know on EU Seed Law
Facilitated by experts like Judith Feheer (KVANN), Magdalena Prieler (Arche Noah), and Maria Zintl (IFOAM), this workshop provided an in-depth exploration of EU seed marketing regulations, equipping participants with the knowledge needed to navigate upcoming reforms. The session also included a roundtable discussion exploring potential collaborative actions and alliances to address the challenges posed by evolving legal frameworks. - Migration of Seeds and the Democratisation of Knowledge
This workshop examined the tension between industrial seed systems and alternative models prioritizing genetic diversity and community-based practices. Case studies from the U.S., Mexico, and Portugal were shared, illustrating how policy and community actions can expand genetic diversity and support participatory plant breeding. - Latest Research on Patents on Plants: Consequences for Breeders and Possible Solutions
This session highlighted the impact of patents on new genetic techniques (NGTs) and their negative effects on conventional breeding. The workshop focused on the consequences for farmers and breeders and explored strategies to improve access to seeds and resist the growing control of seed patents.
Looking Forward
With such a wide range of workshops and sessions, the LLD Forum 2024 was a resounding success, fostering collaboration and innovation across the global seed community. As ECLLD continues to work on building connections and expanding its network, this year’s forum laid a strong foundation for future cooperation and action. A detailed report on the forum’s discussions and outcomes will be made available in the coming months.
Save the date for the next Let’s Liberate Diversity Forum, which will take place in Luxembourg from the 4th to the 6th of September 2025 and stay tuned for more updates on the exciting outcomes of this unique event and the next steps in fostering resilient and diverse seed systems globally.
