FestiJuste: A European Festival for Socio-Ecological Transition

From Brussels to Marseille, students unite for a greener, fairer future

The movement is in full swing—FestiJuste, a European festival for socio-ecological transition, is capturing hearts and minds across campuses from Brussels to Stockholm, and soon, Aix-Marseille Université. Spearheaded by SiTO (Students in Transition Office) at the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), this festival gathers students, associations, experts, and activists to confront the ecological crisis and build a more just, sustainable world—together.

FestiJuste kicked off in Brussels on March 18–19, 2025, with an energizing two-day program hosted on the ULB campus. The first day featured an interactive association village, with student groups and NGOs showcasing projects, facilitating games and workshops, and inspiring action through hands-on engagement. On day two, the focus shifted to critical discussions and thematic debates on topics like food sovereignty, climate justice, and system change —culminating in a warm closing evening of community, reflection, and networking. And the dialogue didn’t stop there: during the week of April 7, students welcomed a delegation from Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) in Senegal for a powerful exchange on sustainability and education. UCAD students shared their experience working on micro-gardening initiatives in Senegalese schools, bringing a vital Global South perspective to the table.

Cross-border conversations: FestiJuste in Stockholm and Marseille

After Brussels, the energy carried north to Stockholm University on March 28, where Swedish students and international guests explored circular economy, climate displacement, and youth-led solutions through workshops and roundtables. The Stockholm edition added its own flavor—focusing on local action with a global lens, and further strengthening student-led networks within the CIVIS alliance.

And now, all eyes turn to the Mediterranean, where Aix-Marseille Université is preparing to host the final edition of FestiJuste on April 25–26, 2025. Set in one of Europe’s most climate-aware regions, the Marseille program promises a vibrant blend of performances, panel discussions, creative workshops, and outdoor community activities—all aligned with FestiJuste’s mission to empower and unite the next generation of change-makers. The event is open to everyone: students, researchers, NGOs, entrepreneurs, and anyone committed to sustainability and justice.

Photo credits: CIVIS communication unit and FestiJUSTE organisers

Meet the organisers and partners behind FestiJuste

FestiJuste is led by SiTO (Students in Transition Office), a student-driven platform at ULB working to accelerate socio-ecological transformation on campus and beyond. The project is coordinated by Patrick Kalas-Mijimbu, who has been a key force in building bridges between partner universities and helping FestiJuste grow into a truly transnational initiative.

The festival is made possible through collaboration with:

  • Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Belgium – Founding and hosting institution
  • Stockholm University (SU), Sweden – Host of the Nordic edition
  • Aix-Marseille Université (AMU), France – Host of the final edition
  • Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD), Senegal – Providing vital Global South insights on ecological transition and education

Together, these institutions form a powerful CIVIS network working toward more just, sustainable, and inclusive futures.
 

Who Is FestiJuste For?

FestiJuste is designed for a broad and diverse audience united by a shared concern for the planet and a desire to act. The festival welcomes:

  • University students and staff passionate about ecological and social justice
  • Associations, NGOs, and activists working on sustainability and climate issues
  • Entrepreneurs and professionals interested in green innovation
  • General public and local communities looking to engage in meaningful dialogue and action

Whether you’re attending a single workshop or following the full program across countries, FestiJuste offers something for everyone!

Why it matters: Our motivation

At its core, FestiJuste is about empowerment. It creates spaces where young people, especially students, can learn, collaborate, and lead the transformation they want to see in the world. The festival encourages bold thinking and practical action—breaking silos between academia, activism, and everyday life.

By fostering cross-border exchanges, elevating Global South perspectives, and weaving together climate, social, and economic justice, FestiJuste challenges the status quo and invites all of us to imagine and build fairer futures—together.

Who can participate?

From Brussels to Marseille, FestiJuste has been a space to:

  • Engage in workshops and debates with leading voices on ecological transition
  • Connect with NGOs and student organisations across Europe and Africa
  • Exchange ideas and build networks that last beyond the festival
  • Get inspired to act— on campus, in communities, and across borders

Practical Information

FestiJuste isn’t just about climate talks—it’s about action, solidarity, and celebration. Come be part of the change!