Unforgettable community discussions and respectful, inclusive debates
The Salt Spring Forum brings diverse perspectives on important issues to a community known for its civic engagement and openness to new ideas.
The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading authors, artists, scientists, political leaders and activists. Our annual speaker series and members-only salons present thought-provoking discussions on some of the greatest issues of our times.
Forum events take place in a truly participatory discussion format that ensures respectful dialogue, a wide-range of perspectives and ideas, and mutual learning.
We invite you to learn more about the Salt Spring Forum. The best way to become involved is to attend one of our many events. We also encourage you to become a member and support our work with a tax-deductible donation.
OUR NEXT EVENT.
Nicholas Coghlan
Sudan- The Forgotten War.
Members-only Salon
Saturday, January 11th, 2025
7:00 for 7.30pm
Nick Coghlan was Canada’s first resident diplomat in Khartoum, Sudan, from 2000-2003. He later served as Canadian ambassador in Juba, South Sudan, after that country was founded in 2011. Nick and Jenny, his wife, were awarded the Meritorious Service Cross for their role in the evacuation of Canadian citizens from Juba after civil war broke out in 2013.
Nick is the author of Far in the Waste Sudan (McGill-Queen’s, 2005), Collapse of a Country: A Diplomat’s memoir of South Sudan (McGill-Queen’s, 2017), and several books about sailing.
The current civil war in Sudan broke out in April 2023 and shows no sign of abating, with 10.7 million people displaced, 150,000 people dead, and 26 million “at risk of acute hunger”.
The country is also the object of foreign interest, with China, Russia and the United States all competing for influence.
Can disaster be averted in this often overlooked but strategically important part of the world? And if so, by whom?
The salon will be moderated by Carolyn McAskie, also a former Canadian ambassador (and the former UN Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support).
Please register HERE. Details of the location will be provided on registration.
Although members-only salons are offered for free, donations are very welcome on the night. Please bring some cash for this purpose!
see who’s coming
See who we have coming up next at the Salt Spring Forum, both live and online guests.
recent speakers
The Forum has hosted some of the world's leading intellectuals, activists, political leaders, and thinkers.
““I am proud of what Forum does. And feel enlightened, broadened, glad to hear the unvarnished experiences of the speakers...” ”