James Kennedy to speak at Betweter Festival

Former Dean prof. James Kennedy will join Roxane van Iperen during a talk about the ‘Great Unease’ at the Betweter Festival on Friday evening, September 30 september at TivoliVredenburg.

In her latest essay, lawyer and author Roxane van Iperen examines the growing intolerance in the Netherlands. She outlines how the Dutch self-image of openness and tolerance under the influence of politics has slowly given way to a penchant for self-preservation, resulting in extreme sentiments. How did it get this far? Why does part of the middle class seek refuge in far-right ideas? How do we regain solidarity?

Van Iperen talks to former Dean of University College Utrecht prof. James Kennedy, professor of modern Dutch history. What historical roots does he see for the current unease?

Van Iperen and James Kennedy are interviewed by Geert Maarse and accompanied by Het Nationaal Jeugd Jazz Orkest.

Go to the website of the Betweter Festival for more information and tickets: www.betweterfestival.nl.