International Civil Society Week (ICSW) 2016 “Active Citizens, Accountable Actions”. 25-28 April, Bogotá, Colombia Media Invitation & Accreditation Journalists/ media (print, online, television, radio, news agencies, etc) are invited to apply for accreditation to attend civil society’s premiere global gathering of inspired thinkers, innovation leaders, and influential organisations - International Civil Society Week (ICSW) 2016. Free registration (value US$250) is provided to selected qualified journalists, who will have access to delegates, press briefings, and media materials. With civil society around the world facing increasing threats, ICSW 2016 will be a forum for civil society leaders to debate and share ideas through more than 30 events on topics such as the new Sustainable Development Goals, global citizenship, youth involvement, the Data Revolution, holding governments accountable, and more. ICSW 2016 is being co-hosted by CIVICUS, the global alliance of civil society organisations, and the Confederación Colombiana de ONG (CCONG) in Bogotá, Colombia from 25-28 April. More info: www.civicus.org/ICSW/ Highlights for media Journalists will have opportunities to connect with civil society leaders and colleagues from across the globe, as well as gain a deeper knowledge of civil society worldwide. (ICSW 2014, held in Johannesburg, brought together more than 600 delegates from over 100 countries). The Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards ceremony will recognise individuals, organisations, and donors for their excellence, innovation, and bravery in promoting social change. In addition to plenary sessions, workshops and meetings, the week will also feature documentary screenings, art exhibitions, and local cultural activities. The week will culminate in the CIVICUS World Assembly, celebrating civil society around the world. Past assemblies have featured high profile speakers such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Former United States President Jimmy Carter, Former President of Ireland and UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mary Robinson, Former First Lady (Mozambique & South Africa) and humanitarian Graca Machel; Secretary-General of Amnesty International, Salil Shetty. The CIVICUS Youth Assembly, held during ICSW and in conjunction with the World Assembly, will provide youth and youth organisations with an opportunity to exchange best practices, strengthen collaboration and build capacity. Support for media coverage CIVICUS/ CCONG will facilitate journalists’ reporting through briefings and introductions to civil society leaders. Access to online media centre, with relevant documents, briefings, and images. Media may opt in to specialised sessions for media, including training and a media roundtable. Journalists will have opportunities to explore Colombian culture through excursions and field trips. Journalists who meet the conference media registration criteria will be accredited on a space-available basis. Media Accreditation Criteria Print/ online Media Only one journalist/reporter or editor per relevant printed publication can be accredited. TV, Radio and Production Houses Accreditations are limited to essential personnel – TV Crew, Presenters, Production Managers, and technical staff etc., and are approved at the discretion of CIVICUS. Media Validation Requirements Recognised Media or Press Card. Letter of assignment on official letterhead from the Editor or Bureau Chief. Independent broadcast or film production companies must provide a letter from a broadcast organisation or film distributor which has committed to air or distribute the work. Freelance journalists, including photographers, must provide documentation that they are on assignment from a specific news organisation or publication. A valid assignment letter from that news organization, or publication, is required. ICSW 2016 Media Accreditation Application Name Surname Job Title Telephone number of applicant: Email of applicant Media House Language of publication Country of publication Type of media (wire service, radio, Website Links to previous work Areas of interest Organisational affiliation/ sponsorship (if any) Attachments checklist Assignment letter. Please email question and/ or application to deborah.walter@civicus.org