The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) presented joint honorary doctorates for societal merit at Bozar to five remarkable cultural voices of Brussels: Stromae, Ever Meulen, François Schuiten, Amélie Nothomb and Lize Spit. With these honorary doctorates, both universities honour artists and authors who embody, describe or depict our capital in an exceptional way.
As open, urban universities, VUB and ULB are strongly rooted in Brussels. At a time when academic freedom is under pressure worldwide, both institutions want to send a powerful signal: art, free expression and critical imagination are essential for an open society. The joint honorary doctorates emphasise the role of universities as forums for independent thinking, debate and creativity.
By jointly honouring five Brussels voices, the universities consciously choose dialogue, cooperation and connectedness instead of polarisation. The initiative also underlines the value of multilingualism, diversity and cultural exchange, core values that both institutions hold dear.
Jan Danckaert, rector of VUB, stated in his speech: “Tonight we honour the connection between our Brussels universities and Brussels culture. We honour that special bond between science and culture, between researchers and artists. The writing, drawing, music-making artist is related to the scientist. He or she not only creates a new reality, but at the same time ensures that we understand reality better.” The VUB rector regrets that the absence of a Brussels government hits the cultural sector in the capital hard. “Brussels politics could take inspiration from the good cooperation between VUB and ULB,” he said on the matter.
Stromae: Brussels in sounds
Stromae, Paul Van Haver, is one of the most influential Belgian artists of recent decades. His music touches on themes such as social inequality, identity, diversity and mental health, and manages to reach millions of people without sacrificing nuance.
As an outspoken Brussels voice and international cultural icon, he embodies the cosmopolitan character that VUB and ULB seek to defend. His personal courage and social engagement make him an inspiring ambassador for an open and inclusive city.
Ever Meulen and François Schuiten: Brussels in images
Illustrators Ever Meulen and François Schuiten have each developed a visual language that brings Brussels to life in all its complexity.
Ever Meulen, Eddy Vermeulen, created countless iconic posters, illustrations and cityscapes that shape the urban memory of Brussels and make its cultural dynamism visible.
François Schuiten transforms Brussels in his work into a poetic and critical space for thought. Through projects such as Brüsel, Train World or the restoration of the Autrique House, he shows how heritage, imagination and future vision come together in Brussels.
Both give the capital a place in the international cultural landscape and thus reflect the values of the universities: creativity, critical reflection and an open outlook on the world.
Amélie Nothomb and Lize Spit: Brussels in words
With their strong literary voices, Amélie Nothomb and Lize Spit help shape the cultural and intellectual profile of Brussels.
Amélie Nothomb, alumna of ULB and internationally acclaimed author, weaves personal history and Brussels inspiration into her work. Her novels contribute to the international reputation of Belgian literature.
Lize Spit, author, screenwriter and lecturer in Brussels, combines literary strength with social engagement. Her work reaches a wide audience and anchors her as a young cultural voice in the city.
Both authors show how Brussels is a breeding ground for creativity and imagination, and confirm the universities as active partners in the literary life of the capital.
Honorary doctorates as a celebration of engagement and creativity
By awarding these five honorary doctorates, VUB and ULB celebrate the cultural richness of Brussels and the importance of independent art and science for society. The joint celebration emphasises the role of both universities as progressive, committed institutions in the heart of Europe. By honouring leading French-speaking and Dutch-speaking artists or writers, the universities underline their commitment to diversity, inclusivity and multilingualism, core values cherished by both VUB and ULB.
Annemie Schaus, rector of ULB
“With the presentation of these insignia, ULB and VUB reaffirm their joint will to join forces and transcend the boundaries of language and disciplines, by paying tribute to those who, through their work and their values, embody freedom of thought, critical spirit, social engagement, imagination and a sense of discovery. With these honorary doctorates, we celebrate not only exceptional personalities, but also the free, inventive and committed spirit that has inspired Brussels and its sister universities since their inception.”
