Discussion Forums

A room filled with people listening attentively to a speaker

Our discussion forums are designed after the “salon” tradition in Europe, in which 8–10 professionals from different sectors of society come together to discuss carefully selected excerpts from key texts within a particular field and, under the guidance of researchers, gain insights into complex and widely debated issues of our time.

The participants prepare by completing a minor task prior to each meeting, e.g. summarising important points from the day's selected text or putting it in the context of their own managerial experiences. Each forum lasts approximately 6-8 months and includes 4-6 meetings. The conversations are confidential and provide space for open dialogue among political, academic, and community leaders, with the aim to understand and explore a topic from multiple perspectives, rather than to reach consensus. For researchers working on topics, that some might consider controversial, the format offers an opportunity for political and community leaders to engage with their ideas.

Discussion forums are intended for leaders from different sectors who seek in-depth knowledge and want to approach contemporary — and at times polarising — issues with openness and curiosity.