On Wednesday 14 May 2025, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam hosted Be the Change, an international symposium co-organised by the Netherlands Commission for UNESCO and the AURORA network.
This event brought together scientists, policymakers, (refugee) students, and UNESCO Chairholders to explore how education, science, culture, and diplomacy can contribute to a more just and peaceful society.
As our Rector Magnificus Jeroen Geurts stated in his opening speech: "today’s symposium is not just another event. It is a signal moment - where we choose whether to remain victims of a fractured world, or become co-creators of something better."
Through workshops, poster sessions and a roundtable, participants engaged with themes such as knowledge equity, social justice, intercultural dialogue, peacebuilding, and the future of our digital ecosystems. Rooted in UNESCO’s mission and linked to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the symposium fostered exchange across generations, disciplines, and cultures. We are looking back on an inspiring day of connection, creativity and critical reflection – and help shape the ideas and actions that will drive meaningful change.
Are you curious about the participants' insights? Or do you want to learn more about the contents of the workshops? Please read the final report of the symposium here. We hope to see you all next year at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.