On Friday 6 June, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel will award four honorary doctorates to philosopher and animal rights pioneer Peter Singer, linguist Terttu Nevalainen, climate scientist Joeri Rogelj and child welfare expert John D. Fluke. According to Rector Jan Danckaert, these are “four outstanding individuals who have had a significant impact on science, society, and the way we confront the major challenges of our time.”

The honorary doctorate ceremony will take place on Friday 6 June 2025 at 3.30 PM at Théâtre du Vaudeville, Galerie de la Reine 13, 1000 Brussels. Members of the press are warmly invited to attend. Please confirm your attendance in advance by contacting peter.van.rompaey@vub.be.

At 7 PM the same evening, Peter Singer will give a lecture followed by a Q&A session at the Malibran Hall of La Monnaie, Rue LĂ©opold 23, 1000 Brussels. The press is also invited to attend this event. Please confirm your attendance in advance with Peter Van Rompaey (peter.van.rompaey@vub.be). This also applies to interview requests with Peter Singer, Terttu Nevalainen, Joeri Rogelj and John D. Fluke.

Practical Information

Friday 6 June 2025
3.30 PM – 6.30 PM
Le Vaudeville
Galerie de la Reine 15
1000 Brussels

Programme

  • 3.30 PM: Ceremony begins

  • 5.00 PM: Reception starts

  • 6.30 PM: Reception ends

More info

The world needs you

This initiative is part of the VUB’s public engagement programme: a programme for anyone who believes the world can be different—and better—and who sees scientific insight, critical thinking and dialogue as vital first steps towards making an impact on society and the world.

As an Urban Engaged University, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel aims to be a driving force for change in the world. Through our academic teaching and innovative research, we contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and help shape the future.

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