Listening to the River: Art, Ecology, and Democratic Imagination

Rivers of Democracy – Launch Event in Palermo

What is ‘Rivers of Democracy’?

Rivers of Democracy is a transnational initiative that seeks to reimagine rivers not only as ecological systems but as subjects of rights, intertwined with human communities, democratic participation, and cultural expression. The project explores how rivers can become entry points for rethinking democracy, environmental justice, and rural revitalisation across Europe. The launch event in Palermo is conceived as an immersive, site-specific experience, combining environmental learning with civic reflection.

A transformative journey connecting youth activism with the Rights of Nature. We will travel from Palermo to the Polina River to learn from Rewilding Sicily about local river restoration and the legal personhood of water. This event marks the official launch of Rivers of Democracy, a project designed to foster new relationships with rivers across Europe through artistic intervention and democratic engagement.

Date and time: April 21st at 9:30 AM for departure 

Location: Palermo – Pollina River 

Departure from: Tempio dei Concerti, Foro Italico Umberto I, 1, 90133 Palermo PA

Capacity: Max. 40 people

Translation: English – Italian

Agenda:

1. Guided Walk across the river: Rewilding Sicily (45 min).
2. Project Launch: Rivers of Democracy. 
3. Civic Debate: Participant discussion on what it means to be politically active at the local level.
4. Political Closing: Linking youth action with environmental democracy.