Strategic litigation is gaining ground as a powerful lever for structural change. But how do you actually start — and when is going to court truly the right path? This session offers a practical introduction, with concrete examples of organizations that succeeded in driving social progress through the courts.
We explore how to move from an initial idea to a solid, goal-oriented case: which strategic decisions are crucial, which risks must be assessed, and when does the law offer more potential than lobbying or campaigning? From different angles and legal contexts, we show where the opportunities lie — and which pitfalls to avoid.
The focus is on feasible steps, smart do’s & don’ts, and the impact that well-chosen legal procedures can create. Ideal for organizations, lawyers, and activists who want to use law as a motor for change.
Attention. This session takes place only in Dutch.
When: 13h15
Where: Studio 1
Language: Dutch
Is it something to cry about or to laugh about?
Lectrr and Elisabeth Lucie Baeten explore how humor and satire can expose injustice without trivialising it. When does humor cut through the noise? Where is the cut the crap moment? A sharp, relatable and often hilarious look at the power of humor in times of polarisation and crisis.
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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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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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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
