How can Belgium and the EU remain meaningfully engaged in countries where civic space is shrinking and authoritarian tendencies are on the rise? What does “engagement” still mean today? Why is it crucial? And what are the consequences when we withdraw—partially or entirely?
This debate is particularly urgent. Worldwide, an estimated 72% of the population lives under authoritarian regimes, while democratic institutions are increasingly under pressure. In this context, the question is not whether we take a position, but how we do so in a thoughtful and strategic way.
The session will begin with a keynote outlining the geopolitical context, followed by interactive case studies from Uganda and Mali. Through a debate and roundtables, participants will engage with policymakers and representatives from civil society. Together, we will explore the tensions, dilemmas, and strategic choices surrounding international engagement.
Participants will leave the session with new insights and concrete recommendations on how to shape engagement in a strategic, coherent, and responsible way, with particular attention to protecting and strengthening civic space.
There will be one French-language roundtable with English interpretation and one English-language roundtable.
When: 13h15
Where: Studio 2
Language: English
KEYNOTE: Maria Ressa (digital)
She challenged dictators, exposed disinformation and defended truth at the risk of her own freedom. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa is coming to Forward Fest. Be inspired by her fight for democracy in a world of digital chaos.
Read more
Border Colonialism
This talk flips the perspective and sparks our radical imagination: what becomes possible when we look beyond dominant border thinking and make room for new language around community, mobility, and justice?
Read more
Budget Myths Debunked
The public debate is dominated by narratives about runaway budgets, unsustainable social security, and sky-high taxes on labour. But what assumptions lie behind that discourse? And are they actually correct?
Read more
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.
Forward Fest is organized by 11.11.11, ngo-federation and VLIRUOS 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
VLIRUOS
INNOVATIVE RESPONSES TO GLOBAL AND LOCAL CHALLENGES
VLIRUOS 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
