Editorial

According to the Auroville Foundation Act, the International Advisory Council (IAC), which is the third component of the Auroville Foundation, has the responsibility to advise the Governing Board on any matter relating to the development of Auroville. In tendering such advice “it shall endeavour to secure that a) the ideals for which Auroville has been established are encouraged and b) the residents of Auroville are allowed freedom to grow and develop activities and institutions for the fulfilment of the aspirations and programmes envisaged in the said Charter of Auroville”.

The present members are Ms. Dena Merriam (Chair), Ms. Gabi Gillessen, Mr. Hasmukh P.Rama, Mr. Michel Danino and Mr. David Frawley.

So far, little is known in the community about how they have been functioning since taking office in October, 2021. Recently, two members of the IAC were in Auroville. Auroville Today asked them how successful the IAC had been in fulfilling its role over the past months, how they view the present situation in the community, and how they envisage the way ahead.

In this issue we also report on the findings and response to a management and change consultant who had been asked by a member of the IAC to assist in creating a space for dialogue in the community, and an Aurovilian explains why he thinks we should be collaborating with the present administration.