Featuring events on politics, current affairs, social and environmental issues, the festival’s aim is to inspire debate and give festivalgoers an opportunity to have their say. Leading figures from the worlds of politics, academia, the arts, the third sector and the media join our programme this year.
For the first time in the festival’s history, it is partnering with the Edinburgh International Festival on several events themed around the International Festival’s central question for 2023: where do we go from here?’, inspired by Martin Luther King Jr’s final book. The events will take place across dates in August at The Scottish Parliament and The Hub and invite you to engage with key creative thinkers who will galvanise all of us to rise to the challenge posed by Martin Luther King Jr’s text.
This year the line-up will feature ‘in conversation’ events taking place in the Debating Chamber with Michael Portillo, broadcaster, and MP for over 20 years; the world’s leading percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie OBE; and one of the foremost music conductors, Gustavo Dudamel.
The Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament the Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP said:
“Every year, the Festival of Politics aims to delve into some of the big issues that feature in day-to-day politics, in the media and in wider civic Scotland.
“Taking place in the Parliament itself, the festival offers a unique opportunity to hear from a range of experts, aiming to inspire debate and allowing people an opportunity to have their say.
“This year we present an exciting and varied programme of events, music and photography and I hope there is something that appeals to everyone looking for events during this year’s Festival season.”
In addition, there is a lively free programme of music, choirs, dance, and exhibitions in the Festival Café Bar.
All events will also be streamed online at no cost.
Tickets can be booked now on our website