FORWARD FEST 26

MARCH 16th 2026 - FLAGEY BRUSSELS

Find out more about the programme here soon

The world is on fire. Superpowers are throwing humanity aside for their own interests. Human rights are disappearing from the diplomatic dictionary, and international law is under enormous pressure. Geopolitics on steroids. Solidarity on fire. What role do NGOs, citizens and activists play in this world of abuse of power, self-interest and extremism? How can we, as champions of human rights and international solidarity, maximise our power? And how can we become the challengers of the system again, instead of the other way around?

At Forward Fest, we bring together fresh voices, unexpected ideas and sharp strategies — on multilateralism, creativity, political impact and much more. For those who want to move forward, against the tide. Forward: Against the Current. Mark 16 March in your diary. More information will follow soon.

About Forward Fest

Forward Fest is more than an event; it is a platform for our sector to make itself visible as an innovative force that looks forward.

OUR OBJECTIVES

Forward Fest aims to profile our sector as a forward-thinking force that does not shy away from difficult questions. The event offers a platform to showcase how we look ahead and innovate in the face of global challenges.

INSPIRE

FUTURE-ORIENTED ACTION

We aim to inspire and motivate participants to take a future-oriented approach. Both the content and the encounters during the event are designed to provide new perspectives and be a source of motivation for positive change.

CONNECT

BRINGING TOGETHER SECTORS AND ACTORS

One of our central goals is to create connections between people and organizations, not just within our sector, but also beyond it. Forward Fest aims to build bridges to other sectors and actors, creating a network of collaboration and synergy.

What to expect

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Global experts share insights on today’s challenges and the role of international cooperation.

PANEL DISCUSSIONS

Delve into relevant themes with engaging discussions among knowledgeable guests from various sectors.

INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS

Experience hands-on sessions that challenge you to actively contribute to unraveling global knots.

Join the movement

Forward Fest 2024 invites you to join the conversation, share your perspective, and collaborate with others to build a future that is fair, inclusive, and interconnected. Explore, learn, and contribute to the change our world needs.

LEARN, SHARE, INSPIRE

Prepare for a day filled with inspiring lectures, surprising workshops, and professional connections that will not only stimulate your thinking but also touch your heart. This is your chance to learn from leading thinkers, network with like-minded individuals, and actively contribute to a more just world.

You will soon be able to register for Forward Fest 2026 here.

Who organizes Forward Fest?

Forward Fest is organized by 11.11.11ngo-federation and VLIR-UOS in collaboration with MO* with the support of Belgian development cooperation.

11.11.11

THE COALITION FOR INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY.

11.11.11 aims to eradicate exploitation from the world. Everyone – anywhere in the world – has the right to a dignified existence. To truly make a change, power and resources must be distributed more fairly, and the current system must be questioned.

More info on 11.be

NGO-FEDERATIE

FLEMISH FEDERATION OF NGOS FOR DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION.

The ngo-federation represents its members to the federal and other governments, supports the members in their discussions with those governments, promotes cooperation within the sector, and strengthens the quality of NGOs’ operations.

More info on ngo-federatie.be

VLIR-UOS

INNOVATIVE RESPONSES TO GLOBAL AND LOCAL CHALLENGES

VLIR-UOS supports partnerships and scholarships between universities and colleges in both Flanders and the Global South, seeking innovative solutions for global as well as local challenges.

More info on vliruos.be