On 1 March 2000, Socires was founded by Jos van Gennip. Cor van Beuningen became its first director. The statutory mission of this new independent, non-profit study centre is: ‘research, reflection and action on contemporary social developments’ and ‘promoting a humane society’.
Over the next 25 years, Socires develops dozens of programmes, publishes books and advice, and organises high-profile symposiums and conferences. Socires is able to do this work thanks to support from funds, private individuals, the business community and governments.
In 2025, Socires will celebrate its fifth lustrum. Its social commitment remains as strong as ever, now with a new generation of researchers in its ranks. We are still engaged in promoting a humane society through multiple programmes.
What we do
We are proud of what we have achieved in 25 years and would like to celebrate this with all our friends and acquaintances. We will be doing so throughout the year, with a new website, the launch of a magazine for subscribers, publications and other wonderful gatherings.
In particular, we will be celebrating our anniversary in the autumn. Keep an eye on this page for more information and news.
Between autumn 2024 and summer 2025, journalist and writer Aukje van Roessel will conduct interviews with Jos van Gennip about his life, thoughts and personal experiences. She will interview him about the major social, religious and political changes that have been a recurring theme throughout his life. Supplemented by background research, Van Roessel will publish the results of this series of conversations in a book in October 2025. The book will be published by Prometheus Publishers and will be available at all well-known bookshops.
Socires is organising a festive presentation to mark the publication of the book.
Who we work with
We are able to produce Aukje van Roessel's book with the support of Porticus, the Anton Jurgens Fund, Kansfonds, NIMD, Cordaid, the Adrianus Fund and the Prof. Steenkamp Fund.
Want to know more?
Would you like to know more about Socires, our anniversary, Aukje van Roessel's book, or other activities? Please contact David Oldenhof, Kees Buitendijk or Wilma Bakker. They will also be happy to put you in touch with Jos van Gennip or Aukje van Roessel.
