This coming September the international literature festival berlin offers not just top-quality literature from all parts of the world, but you can also experience panel discussions on current issues with prominent guests. Presenting works of nonfiction and providing a platform for experts, activists, and politicians, the festival underscores its role as a forum for a plurality of opinions and dialogue.
In different settings, two to four individuals talk and debate on stage about political or socially relevant topics for one to one-and-a-half hours. These exchanges are hosted by professional moderators, who often take questions from the public.
This year’s festival illuminates the far corners of a »Strange New World«, where politics unfold in an emotionally charged time. Activism against racism, self-hate, and climate change is prevalent; and a push is underway to take us in new directions.
The following events are opportunities for thought, reflection, seeing, and understanding:
- The book premiere »Muslimisch-Jüdisches Abendbrot« with Meron Mendel and Saba-Nur Cheema
- The Boycott Dilemma – BDS, Strike Germany and no end: A debate between Candice Breitz, Stefan Laurin, Per Leo, and Peter Kuras on boycott attempts in the world of art and culture (curated by PEN Berlin)
- Displacement and Peace: A panel discussion with political advisor Gerald Knaus, security expert Claudia Major, and the author-couple Günter Verheugen and Petra Erler about the future of freedom and security in Europe.
- Hanau is not unique: A discussion between Said Etris Hashemi, who narrowly survived the right-wing terror attack in Hanau in 2020, author Gilda Sahebi, and legal scholar Tobias Singelnstein on institutional racism in Germany.
- Politics. An Emotional Space: A dialogue between the renowned philosopher Julian Nida-Rümelin and SPIEGEL-bestseller author and neuroscientist Maren Urner on politics in the space of emotion.
- The premiere of the essay collection »Selbst schuld!« with Şeyda Kurt, Anke Stelling, and the publisher duo Ann-Kristin Tlusty and Wolfgang M. Schmitt.
- Nature Force: A conversation between Davi Kopenawa, the spokesperson of the Yanomami Indigenous peoples who is also the recipient of the Right Livelihood Award, and the well-known representative of the Last Generation, Mirjam Herrmann about their efforts for climate protection.