A EUROPEAN SUMMIT
FREEDOM OF
RESEARCH
4.11. – 5.11.2024 | AACHEN
Days
Hours
Minutes
VISION
Freedom in all its dimensions is a core European value and right. Freedom of research is vital for fostering innovation, expanding knowledge, and ensuring Europe's global competitiveness. Today, this freedom is increasingly under pressure from political tensions and shifting uncertainties. How can we navigate these challenges? How do we create a resilient framework for future developments to come?
OUR TOPICS
Our Summit aims to explore strategies for building a robust academic community that aligns with European principles and supports democratic governance and societal benefit. We seek to strengthen Europe's position as a competitive and sovereign actor while upholding the ideals of academic freedom.
As uncertainties regarding the future of Europe mount and the call for transparency and public discourse grows louder than ever, we seek to engage a broad audience to discuss current and future challenges.
PROGRAM
LUDWIG FORUM
01
FREEDOM LATE NIGHT
MONDAY, 4 NOVEMBER 2024
We invite you to an inspiring event featuring thought-provoking talks, artistic performances, and scientific presentations. Delve into the critical questions: "Why is science crucial for freedom?" and "How do key technologies ensure our freedom and that of future generations?" Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a vibrant discussion on the power of education and technology in securing freedom for all.
The Freedom LateNight event will be held in the Ludwig Forum für Internationale Kunst in Aachen, offering a unique and immersive experience that explores the multifaceted concept of freedom. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the theme from various perspectives – artistic, scientific, political, and deeply personal – across three dynamic stages.
FORUM M
02
SYMPOSIUM
TUESDAY, 5 NOVEMBER 2024
In a conference format, we will explore various aspects of research freedom in times of uncertainty through panel discussions, TED Talks, and interactive sessions. Engage with renowned scientists, hear firsthand accounts from representatives in business, politics, and academia, discuss the ideas of young researchers from across Europe who are currently working on pressing issues that may affect all of us, and reflect with us on the major challenges for the future of Europe.
These thematic discussions will take place on the rooftop of the bookstore “Mayersche” at forum M, right in the heart of Aachen. Whether you are a student, an expert, a media representative or a local, you are warmly invited to join the debates.
CORONATION HALL, AACHEN TOWN HALL
03
FESTIVE EVENING EVENT
TUESDAY, 5 NOVEMBER 2024
In a festive dinner atmosphere in the historic halls of Aachen’s Coronation Hall, we will reflect on the day's discussions and look forward to inspiring keynote addresses. The dinner will conclude with the awarding of scholarships to the new Fellows of the Charlemagne Prize Academy, and mark the end of the Summit.
C.A.R.L., RWTH AACHEN UNIVERSITY
04
ART EXHIBITION
21 OCTOBER TO 5 NOVEMBER 2024
We are pleased to have brought the exhibition “European Archive of Voices” to Aachen.
A team of 50 young international interviewers has interviewed people from across Europe born in the first half of the 20th century in their mother tongue about their experiences, fears and hopes. This diverse collection of memoirs includes activists, artists, lawyers, politicians, scientists, writers, and many more. Through these varied biographies, the project aims to highlight the rich, complex, and polarized histories of Europe and the generation that rebuilt it after 1945.
Young photographer Maximilian Gödecke, focusing on reportage and portrait photography, travels through European countries, capturing personal portraits of the witnesses to history featured in the “European Archive of Voices.” Through his lens, he captures not only their faces but also the spirit of a “last generation.” The project won the European Charlemagne Youth Prize in 2020.
The exhibition will be displayed in the Foyer of the C.A.R.L. at RWTH Aachen University. The opening will take place on Monday, 21 October 2024, at 12:00pm.
SPEAKERS
FREEDOM LATE NIGHT
SYMPOSIUM
FESTIVE EVENING EVENT
WHY PARTICIPATE?
INTERACTIVE FORMATS
DISCOVER AACHEN
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
WHY PARTICIPATE?
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Our primary goal is to create a platform for young people to get in touch with decision-makers on a professional and personal level, and to foster sustainable cross-border collaboration and exchange of ideas and visions. The Summit, therefore, serves as a venue for open dialogue, facilitating freedom in research and knowledge transfer. Whether it is during a dance performance, strolling through the art exhibition at C.A.R.L., engaging in discussions with panelists at our Symposium, participating in an interactive lunch break, or joining roundtable conversations with representatives from business, academia, and politics, we aim to offer diverse opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds to connect.
DISCOVER AACHEN
Aachen, renowned for its rich history and vibrant academic atmosphere, provides an ideal setting for this gathering of minds. Situated in the heart of the tri-border region and close to Brussels, Aachen embodies the spirit of Europe, facilitating transnational exchange and networking. This is further enhanced by the presence of RWTH Aachen University, a hub of excellence and innovation, as well as the city’s thriving startup scene and its deep-rooted tradition of creativity and free thought. With various event formats taking place at different locations throughout the city, both locals and visitors will have much to explore during our Summit.
INTERACTIVE FORMATS
Our Summit offers a diverse range of experiences, including TED Talks, fairs, panel discussions, keynotes, art exhibitions, a dance choreography, and much more. Each of these formats provides unique opportunities to engage, learn, and be inspired. By participating, you’ll not only gain valuable insights from thought leaders across various fields but also experience the intersection of creativity, innovation, and culture. This is more than just a conference—it’s a vibrant, multi-faceted event designed to broaden your perspectives and empower you to contribute to shaping the future of Europe and the freedom of research.
SAVE YOUR SPOT
To secure your spot, please register for the event sessions using the following registration form. After your registration, you will receive a confirmation email with all further details. All event sessions are open to the public and free of charge.
For any questions, please feel free to contact us at:
contact@for-summit.eu
For press inquiries, please contact:
REGISTRATION FORM
ABOUT US
The Summit is jointly organized by the Charlemagne Prize Foundation and RWTH Aachen University’s Knowledge Hub and Käte Hamburger Kolleg: Cultures of Research (co/re). We invite you to Aachen for a summit focused on the crucial role of freedom in scientific, cultural, social, and political contexts. With a program that includes a late-night event, an all-day symposium, an art exhibition, and a festive evening, the summit will bring together researchers, policymakers, representatives of business, media, culture and the public to exchange ideas and develop strategies for strengthening academic freedom, fostering a resilient European community that champions democratic governance and societal benefit, and connect fresh perspectives and innovative solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.
IMPRESSIONEN
