New Orleans, Louisiana
USA October 29th – November 1st, 2016
Before the delegation from Global Bridges met in the “Swing State” Ohio for a final observation of the US Presidential Campaign, a small group of them led by Dr. Beate Lindemann paid a visit to New Orleans, in the American South.
Hainan, Haikou, P.R. China October 11 to 16, 2016
“Craftsmanship, Innovation, and Business Startups of Young Leaders
The days in Haikou, were a truly memorable and enriching experience:
First, the conference was an excellent opportunity to learn more about China, its culture and about Hainan in particular. The breathtaking speed at which China is transforming its economy and its society, for example, was very vividly illustrated by the contrast between Haikou’s historical city center and the local government’s ambitious future urban development goals.
Second, the conference was a catalyst for stimulating exchanges about Craftsmanship, Innovation, and Business Startups among its participants.
Finally and most importantly, the days in Haikou facilitated personal encounters – during the formal program but also various informal get-togethers (Karaoke, Chinese foot massages, evenings at the hotel bar) – which laid the basis for long-lasting friendships.
“I am left with great confidence.”
Walther Leisler Kiep, January 5, 1926 – May 9, 2016
The Board of Directors and the members of Global Bridges are united in deep sadness over the death of Walther Leisler Kiep. Saying farewell to the founding father of our organization leaves us with painful wounds and deep gaps that will be hard to fill.
China, October 26 – 2015
Far from the booming metropolises of Shanghai and Hong Kong, it is easy to witness the rebirth of a world power caught between traditional structures and new prosperity. A Chinese conversation partner casually pointed out that following decades of unprecedented growth and the increase in pollution, the app he uses to measure fine dust has almost become as important to him as weather reports.
Iran, May 1 – 2015
While high-pressure nuclear negotiations were being carried out with the utmost diplomacy, we experienced a land of extreme diversity and contradiction. Conservatives insist on the status quo of isolation, reformers strive for cultural openness and economic awakening. New perspectives for the recognition of the role women play in society are being formed. We were addressed with curiosity on the streets – and in well-spoken English. As a longstanding politician, Frankfurt’s former mayor Petra Roth swiftly wins sympathy among young female Iranians.
Northern Iraq, May 28 — 2014
How does one survive in a politically unstable region? Shortly before the outbreak of IS hostilities against the Kurds, the Young Leaders experienced how the will to survive and modern economic thought prevail in one of the oldest cities in the world. In our everyday encounters we experienced the pursuit of a progressive civil society.
Israel, April 30 – 2014
How can a conflict between two sides that claim history for themselves be resolved fairly? The religious, historical and material context of the tensions between Israelis and Palestinians can only be understood first-hand by going there, observing and listening. Global Bridges engaged in intensive discussions with negotiators from both sides. And just how fragile the status quo is between Israelis and Palestinians was demonstrated a few weeks after the trip, when violence broke out again, claiming the lives of countless victims.