DIFFERENCE DAY
A decade of celebrating the freedom of press and expression
REGISTER FOR THE 2025 EDITION
10 years ago, in 2015, Islamist terrorists attacked the French weekly Charlie Hebdo. They could not tolerate that the magazine published cartoons mocking the Prophet Mohammed.
Twelve people lost their lives in the attack, including eight journalists.
The attack was the immediate catalyst for the late VUB honorary rector, Caroline Pauwels, to join forces with the Université libre de Bruxelles, Erasmushogeschool Brussel, and arts centre Bozar in launching the initiative that became Difference Day. These organising partners were later joined by participating partners such as the European Broadcasting Union, the European Federation of Journalists, the European Commission, UNESCO, and the European Endowment for Democracy.
Freedom of the press and freedom of expression are fragile values that deserve active support. Difference Day, held deliberately on or around 3 May – World Press Freedom Day – is a tribute to individuals, organisations, and institutions that make a significant contribution to these freedoms.
Ten years on, that mission remains unchanged.
Difference Day has grown into a vibrant event for and by independent journalists and news media. It features experts and organisations from the journalistic and academic spheres who review and discuss the current state of journalism. The event includes engaging lectures, debates and panel discussions and, of course, concludes with a reception.