“Belgium is a sick country.” For years, the public debate has been 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?
In this session, we dissect a number of persistent budget myths. We examine how certain diagnoses—such as the idea that “excessively high labour costs” lie at the heart of the problem—have shaped policy for decades. What do these choices mean for the state’s revenues and expenditures? Which alternatives remain underexplored? And how does this narrative shape our view of solidarity, work, and prosperity?
A critical short talk on what is at stake when economic myths become policy.
When: 10:45
Where: Studio 1
Language: Dutch
Matthias Somers is coordinator and research fellow at the Minerva think tank.
Els Hertogen on the future of international solidarity
International solidarity in a world under high tension? This closing session brings together the core questions of Forward Fest 2026.
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Global Gateway Beyond the Slogans
How sustainable and equitable is the EU investment model, really? Through a concrete case in Benin, we explore what Global Gateway means for partnership, local value creation, and the balance between development, trade, and geopolitics.
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KEYNOTE: Jasmine Malekzadem
Jasmine Malekzadem is a sharp and inspiring voice in the debate on justice, diversity and democracy. For years, she has followed the protest movements in Iran and broader questions of resistance and solidarity in authoritarian contexts.
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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
