Workshop A: Ecocide, Decoloniality and Biocultural Peace

• November 4, 15:00 - 17:00

On November 4th, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, the Amsterdam Center for Conflict Studies (ACCS) presents a unique workshop at the University of Amsterdam. The session will be led by renowned Colombian community leader, Dr. Hernando Chindoy.

Building on previous dialogues on global health and multiple epistemologies organized by the Centre for Social Science and Global Health (SSGH), this workshop will explore the profound concept of biocultural peace, which Dr. Chindoy defines as the harmonious coexistence of all species and life systems.

The event will begin with a short video revisiting earlier discussions, followed by a presentation on the transformative experiences of the "Wuasikamas" and "Ëconeêrã" initiatives in the Colombian Andinean-Amazon. Dr. Chindoy will share how the Inga community of Aponte rebuilt its social fabric by revitalizing ancestral knowledge and fostering co-responsibility with both humans and non-humans, even in the face of immense pressures from mining and narcotrafficking.

The session will delve into the power of collective healing as a counter to ecocide, epistemicide, and genocide. It will conclude with an open dialogue, inviting participants to explore how these powerful ideas can be translated across different disciplines and communities.

About the speaker

Hernando Chindoy Chindoy has over 20 years of experience working with and supporting indigenous peoples in Colombia, demonstrating excellent skills in managing, directing, and coordinating social, economic, and environmental projects.

Hernando has been invited as a speaker by various academic, artistic, and cultural institutions across the Americas and Europe.

He is the founder of the WUASIKAMAS - Guardians of the Earth initiative and the ËCONEÊRÃ International Pluriversity, aimed at promoting, developing, and strengthening alternative political and spiritual responses to foster recognition and dialogue in pursuit of Biocultural Peace and the comprehensive safeguarding of life. These initiatives also seek to end, prevent, and address poverty, hunger, and discrimination.

Among his various national and international recognitions are:

• Doctor Honoris Causa from the University of the Arts London for his contributions to the field of climate studies/indigenous knowledge (2023).
• Marianne Initiative Human Rights Award 2025, awarded by the French Republic.