Reflecting on the Filia Conference 2025 in Brighton
Empowering Women. Shaping the Future.

I was at Filia, the Women’s Rights Conference in Brighton, UK , in October 2025. It was the first time I took some time to reflect after my children vanished on June 11th, 2024. I met women with very sad stories, many even worse than mine. It was heavy and exhausting to listen to the testimonies of such horrific fates. I could never attend more than one reading a day because I was so affected by their stories.

Every morning I woke up early, walked to the beach, had coffee, and met with Anita Gera, the co-founder of Hague Explained. Her friend in Berlin had seen the interview in which I explained my case on Guten Morgen Deutschland, a TV show that discusses a wide range of topics, including mine — because it is so bizarre. We got in touch and connected instantly. Two complete strangers who felt deeply bonded because our cases were so similar. She has not seen her children in nearly ten years. I felt her pain when she spoke about them, even though she remained very composed.

The Filia Conference 2025 in Brighton was an unforgettable gathering that brought together a powerful community of women from all walks of life, united by a shared vision of equality, justice, and empowerment. Over the course of the event, participants engaged in inspiring conversations, attended thought-provoking workshops, and forged meaningful connections that will continue to shape the movement for years to come.

Held in the heart of Brighton, a city renowned for its progressive spirit, the conference was a space for women to share their experiences, challenge the status quo, and explore the most pressing issues of our time—from gender equality and reproductive rights to environmental justice and the intersectionality of women’s struggles.

With talks from leading activists, academics, and community leaders, Filia 2025 offered a platform for bold ideas and impactful actions. The energy and solidarity in the room were palpable, leaving attendees feeling inspired and empowered to take concrete steps in their own communities.

As we look back on this transformative event, we are reminded of the power of coming together, sharing our voices, and working collectively for a world where every woman can thrive. Filia 2025 was not just a conference—it was a call to action, a celebration of resilience, and a testament to the strength of the women who are shaping the future.