The world is under immense pressure. Geopolitics increasingly overrides humanity, human rights are disappearing from the diplomatic vocabulary, and international law is cracking under the pressure of self-interest. In this context, international solidarity faces an existential question.
In this opening session, Els Hertogen looks ahead. What does solidarity mean today, in a world of abuse of power, extremism, and crumbling rules of the game? What role can NGOs, citizens, and activists continue to play? And how do we reverse the perspective?
When: 9h30
Where: Studio 4
Language: English
In 2019, Els became General Director of 11.11.11. At that time, she already had 12 years of experience within the organization, including 7 years in leadership roles. Bringing people together around inspiring ideas and influencing policy have been the common thread throughout her work at 11.11.11.
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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?
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Security: From Fear to Freedom
Today, “safety” dominates the political discourse. Policy choices, budgets and alliances are increasingly built around it. But what does that mean for citizens and civil society? Should we go along with this dominant narrative?
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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
