Proclamation – Federation Afro Diaspora Network

Federation Afro Diaspora Network (FADN) Builds Bridges:

“Collaboration as the Key to Sustainable Impact”

On Saturday, 24 January 2026, the proclamation of the Federation Afro Diaspora Network (FADN) took place at the Public Library of Amsterdam.

Founded on 31 October 2025, the federation marks a new phase of collective organization and cooperation within the Afro-diaspora. With the mission of uniting organizations, initiatives, and communities, the FADN positions itself as a strong collective platform for the representation of economic, social, and cultural interests. One voice, shared strength.

The event was held in the context of the World Day for African and Afro-descendant Culture, a day proclaimed by UNESCO in 2019 to honor the richness of African cultures and the global contributions of the African diaspora. The date also refers to the adoption of the Charter for the Cultural Renaissance of Africa in 2006.

During the program, the members of the Development & Research Committee were introduced: Mr. Van Ampt, Mr. Hellings, Ms. Vijzelman, and Mr. Van Bossé. They played an active role in the establishment and substantive development of the federation.

Guest Speakers

Dr. Barryl Biekman approached the establishment of the FADN from a Pan-African perspective and offered constructive recommendations to strengthen the connection between the federation and the field.

Dr. Miriam Ekiudoko (Hungary) placed the event within the framework of the objectives and principles of the World Day for African and Afro-descendant Culture.

Mr. Iwan Leeuwin (Chair) and Ms. Connie Arnoldus (Secretary) provided further clarification on the federation’s mission, vision, and operational approach. More information can be found at www.federatie-adn.org.

ObjectiveThe objective of the Federation Afro Diaspora Network is to represent, strengthen, and connect Afro organizations worldwide, with particular attention to the Netherlands, the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Suriname, and other diaspora regions. In addition, the federation promotes equal rights, social justice, cultural recognition, self-determination, and economic development, and acts as a dialogue partner on behalf of its affiliated organizations with national and international stakeholders.

FADN Press Office

Amsterdam, 24 January 2026