In this session, Lectrr and Elisabeth Lucie Baeten explore the power of humor and satire in turbulent times.
Both excel at expressing what many people feel but struggle to put into words — from frustration and powerlessness to anger and hope.
We examine how humor can serve as a weapon against injustice without trivialising reality. Where is their cut the crap moment? When does humor cut through the noise and hit the essence? And what role does the “court jester” play today, in an era of polarisation, conflict and social media that flattens every nuance?
An open, sharp and at times hilarious conversation about imagination, form and the thin line between laughing and crying — and why we may need that line now more than ever.
Attention. This session takes place only in Dutch.
Language of instruction: Dutch
Europe’s industrial renaissance: cooperation or zero-sum game?
Europe is redrawing its industrial policy. Will this renaissance drive the Green Deal and a just transition—or fuel a zero-sum race that deepens inequality? Join us to explore who stands to gain, who risks losing, and which choices matter most.
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What does innovation mean for our sector?
Innovation isn’t a luxury, it’s essential. Discover how mindset, collaboration and experimentation can boost impact, even in uncertain times.
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Authoritarian regimes: stay engaged or retreat?
In a world where conflicts are increasing and authoritarian regimes dominate, international engagement is under pressure. This session explores how Belgium and the EU can remain engaged where civic space is shrinking and what choices that requires today
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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.
Get your ticketsForward 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
