In this podcast series, we provide space for these perspectives – those of individuals, specific groups, and different generations. We ask how the UvA, as an educational and research institution, can – or perhaps even should – engage with all these differing viewpoints.

Episode 2 – Philosopher Femke Kaulingfreks: ‘Understanding grows in the in-between spaces

In this episode:

Femke Kaulingfreks, Wibaut Professor at the University of Amsterdam and senior lecturer at Inholland University of Applied Sciences, studies the social and political engagement of young people. She wants to know: how can adults truly hear what drives young people? Because that’s where radical change can begin.

Being able to understand other perspectives is essential, she says, if we want to do justice to the diversity within our communities. She looks at the ‘in-between spaces’—where understanding grows and where the roots of inequality become visible.

She also hears from young people that the UvA feels like it sits—literally and figuratively—on an island in the city. This episode is a passionate plea for genuine curiosity, and for creating space to start and keep having real conversations.

In June 2025, Femke Kaulingfreks and Hetty van Kempen presented “Alone you go faster, but together you go further”—a study on democratic collaboration practices in Amsterdam Zuidoost.

Episode 1 – A conversation with Christa Boer and Peter-Paul Verbeek on Israel-Gaza

In this first episode, Rector Magnificus Peter-Paul Verbeek and Christa Boer, Dean of the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, discuss the Israel-Gaza situation. Together, they look back and ahead – reflecting on their roles as administrators and the dilemmas they face. They also talk about the forthcoming presentation of the new policy framework for the ethical review of collaborations. 

Would you prefer to watch the episode as a video (with English subtitles)? You can watch the video recording here.

In this episode:

• Reflections on the demonstrations and how they are resonating within the faculties

• Response to Christa Boer's statement on LinkedIn regarding the Red Line

• Response to the Rector’s letter

• How the revised Assessment Framework will support decisions on whether or not to enter into collaborations.