Rethinking International Cooperation with the Podcast 'Dwarsliggers'

Dwarsliggers is a podcast that challenges the status quo, exploring power dynamics, justice, and reform through conversations with thinkers and doers in international cooperation.

The Podcast 'Dwarsliggers' — Dutch term used for people who challenge the status quo by open discussions and asking difficult questions) —  takes a broader look at international cooperation — because the world is changing rapidly. Climate crises, growing inequality and poverty, and the rise of autocratic regimes other then democratic ones.

Podcast hosts Fenna Timsi, David Heyer, and Betteke de Gaay Fortman speak with thinkers, doers, and contrarians about different topics and themes, such as 1) power and morality, 2) money and justice, and 3) hope and reform.

Listen here to the podcast that 'keeps asking questions — especially when things get uncomfortable'.

The programs
we support

30.7.2026

Rethinking Development: Ownership, Agency, and the End of External Dependency

A new opinion piece by Deepak Raj Sapkota and Uttam Sharma argues that lasting development must be driven from within, by communities and governments who own the process from day one. Drawing on Nepal's DPRP program, where 73 municipalities now operate without external funding, they show this is not idealism but a proven practice.

Lotte Korsten
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DPRP
30.7.2026

The Story of Damas: A Blind Young Man Becoming a Lawyer in the DRC

Damas lost his sight at 14, yet went on to become one of the best law students in Bukavu in the DRC, determined to defend the rights of people with disabilities. His journey — supported by the Tunafasi program of ADED — shows that believing in someone can be the spark that changes everything.

Betteke de Gaay Fortman
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Contributing to transformation
30.7.2026

From Stichting Impaction to Stichting TUNAFASI

The Tunafasi program has been changing the lives of children with disabilities in Eastern Congo since 2019, through locally-led, trust-based collaboration. In May 2026, Impaction Foundation officially became Stichting TUNAFASI - Swahili for 'we all have a place'. Read more why this change happened.

Betteke de Gaay Fortman
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