What happens to freedom, democracy and human dignity when a city falls under foreign occupation? And what can the past teach us about the conflicts of today? During the First World War, the people of Brussels lived under German occupation for four years. More than a century later, their experiences raise questions that remain as relevant and urgent as ever.
To mark Armistice Day, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel warmly invites you to a special lecture in the Ties That Bind Us series.
What does the experience of one large city under enemy occupation during a long-past world war teach us about democracy, the international rule of law, and pacifism today? Or, for that matter, about military occupation today? Historian of war and society Sophie De Schaepdrijver delves into the particular history of occupied Brussels in 1914-1918 to explore contemporary questions.
Following the lecture, Nel de Mûelenaere (Vrije Universiteit Brussel) will lead a conversation with Sophie De Schaepdrijver and the audience. Together, they will reflect on occupation and the ways in which civilians respond to oppression, both during the First World War and beyond.
We look forward to welcoming you to this special 11 November Lecture at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
This initiative is part of VUB's Ties That Bind Us Series and VUB's public programme, a programme for everyone who believes that scientific knowledge, critical thinking and dialogue are an important first step to create impact in the world.