Kick-off research theme 'Trust in polarised times'
- Date
- Friday 5 June 2026
- Time
- Address
- University campus Spui
Spui 5
2511BL The Hague - Room
- 3B.56
In the Netherlands and beyond, social relations are becoming increasingly polarised. Trust in institutions and in one another is under pressure. Some citizens disengage, while others become radicalised. The government is not sufficiently successful in solving citizens’ problems. This applies both to individual problems such as poverty, debt, and poor access to healthcare, and to broader societal conflicts, for example around climate change or racism. Political, administrative, judicial, and other public institutions are struggling with this lack of trust.
The research theme ‘Trust in polarised times’ brings together the expertise of all Leiden and The Hague based researchers working on this topic. From a wide range of disciplines and perspectives, we study these issues. We strengthen existing contacts and collaborations by building a strong network of researchers that showcases what Leiden University already offers in this field, while also creating space for further interdisciplinary collaboration that may generate added value in the future through new connections.
As a kick-off for this new theme, we will come together on Friday 5 June. We invite all Leiden and The Hague researchers working on issues related to trust and polarisation. Meeting one another is central. We will explore what we want to achieve together, which sub-themes will be central, which existing collaborations we can strengthen and broaden, and what opportunities exist for new collaborations.
The spoken language during this event is English.
Programme
12:30 – 13:00 | Arrival with coffee and tea
13:00 – 13:10 | Welcome remarks
13:10 – 14:00 | Pitches on the research areas within the theme
14:00 – 14:45 | Speeddates with participants, focused on research areas and opportunities for collaboration in projects, funding, education, and impact
14:45 – 15:15 | Break and group photo
15:15 – 16:00 | Group discussions on shaping the theme: what do we want to achieve together?
16:00 – 16:30 | Plenary feedback and discussion
16:30 – 17:30 | Drinks / networking reception