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Public Forum: The Right to the City + BrIAS 26 Closing ceremony (Brussels, 29 May 2026)
Forum organized by BrIAS in collaboration with RABKO, OHME, and GRESAC.
At a time when democracies are facing increasing fragility, the role of art and culture in their preservation and reinvention appears more essential than ever. In Brussels, a global city with remarkable cultural vitality, this question is particularly pressing: while artistic wealth abounds, it remains unequally accessible, and the balances that sustain it are now being tested.
How can the cultural sector remain a space of freedom, inclusion, and democratic resistance?
This forum brings together researchers, cultural practitioners, policymakers, and public administrators to reflect on the links between artistic practices, cultural policies, and democratic life. It explores culture both as a mirror of social tensions and as a driver of transformation.
The forum focuses on two key dimensions: (1) equality of access to culture as a driver of democratic engagement and social cohesion; (2) artistic autonomy as a driver of democratic freedom and resistance.
Forum Sessions
Part 1 – Access to culture as a fundamental right
Despite mediation efforts, large segments of the Brussels population remain excluded from cultural participation. This session highlights grassroots initiatives working to make cultural access a civic reality rather than a privilege.
Part 2 – Artistic autonomy and democratic resistance
This session addresses growing pressures on the cultural sector, including funding constraints and ideological challenges, and reflects on how to safeguard artistic independence as a pillar of democracy.
Program and registration
The full conference programme may be consulted here.
Participants are kindly requested to register using the form available here.
Participation is free of charge, but prior registration is mandatory.