From 3 to 8 August 2025, the Belgian Pavilion hosted one of its most meaningful and moving programs: Peace, Human Security and Dignity Week. Thematic and immersive, the week invited reflection on living with equality, respect, and authenticity, exploring how societies can nurture these values amid global challenges.
Under the banner “The Joy of Being,” the Pavilion celebrated diversity, inclusion, and self-expression through a vibrant cultural program. Daily performances by Red Sebastian, le talu, and Alice on the Roof captivated audiences, combining artistry, resilience, and pride to embody freedom and human dignity.
Conference Program & Thought Leadership
In parallel, a rich series of panels and talks brought together voices from Belgium, Japan, and beyond: thinkers, scientists, artists, and activists who explored topics from gender equality and AI ethics to women in STEM and queer representation.
Highlights included:
Gender Neutral Fashion Show: Expo 2025 uniforms reimagined through the lens of identity and self-expression, celebrating creativity and inclusion.
Panels: Covering Breaking the Glass Ceiling, Gender, Dignity & Social Inclusion, and Women in Astronomy, fostering dialogue on equity and empowerment.
Talks by key speakers: Hideko Nishioka, Geertrui Mieke De Ketelaere, Dalilla Hermans, Ish Ait-Hamou and Yaël Nazé.
Performance of Walking Home by Jaouad Alloul, sharing a deeply personal queer narrative that resonated with visitors and emphasized authenticity and pride.
Impact & Significance
Peace, Human Security and Dignity Week successfully combined art, dialogue, and lived experiences to deliver a powerful message: every human being deserves the freedom to exist fully, boldly, and proudly. The week reinforced Belgium’s commitment to gender equality, inclusivity, and human dignity, leaving a lasting impression on visitors and fostering cross-cultural understanding at Expo 2025 Osaka.