24-25 November 2025

• München

48FORWARD
FESTIVAL

INNOVATION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION: INSIGHTS FOR A NEW WORLD ORDER
INNOVATION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION: INSIGHTS FOR A NEW WORLD ORDER
INNOVATION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION: INSIGHTS FOR A NEW WORLD ORDER
INNOVATION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION: INSIGHTS FOR A NEW WORLD ORDER
INNOVATION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION: INSIGHTS FOR A NEW WORLD ORDER
INNOVATION STARTS WITH CONVERSATION: INSIGHTS FOR A NEW WORLD ORDER

THE FUTURE DEMANDS VISIONARIES: JOIN THE DEBATE, SHAPE THE CHANGE
THE FUTURE DEMANDS VISIONARIES: JOIN THE DEBATE, SHAPE THE CHANGE
THE FUTURE DEMANDS VISIONARIES: JOIN THE DEBATE, SHAPE THE CHANGE
THE FUTURE DEMANDS VISIONARIES: JOIN THE DEBATE, SHAPE THE CHANGE
THE FUTURE DEMANDS VISIONARIES: JOIN THE DEBATE, SHAPE THE CHANGE
THE FUTURE DEMANDS VISIONARIES: JOIN THE DEBATE, SHAPE THE CHANGE

Debating possible futures

The 48forward Festival brings together the leading minds of our time to debate the relevant questions of the future. With a clear mission: visionary ideas and inspiring conversations that enable real change. Those who wish to actively shape the future will find here the impulses and connections to think ahead and act sustainably.

100%

Debates, interviews and content instead of PowerPoint slides and sales pitches

50+

Inspiring minds on stage

500+

Decision makers in the audience

10+

Masterclasses and Q&A sessions

2

Days packed with insights

on stage

The speakers at the 48forward Festival are handpicked: thought leaders, CEOs and experts who set new standards.
Their unique expertise provides fresh impulses for forward-looking discussions and genuine change.

Former President of the Federal Republic of Germany

Christian Wulff

Committed to social justice and intercultural dialogue. An influential speaker and advisor for democracy and the rule of law.

Former President of the Republic of Estonia

Toomas Hendrik Ilves

Shaping the European agenda, committed to digital innovation and cybersecurity. Influential thinker in politics and technology.

Chairman of the Supervisory Boards of Siemens Energy AG and Daimler Truck Holding AG

Joe Kaeser

Thought leader of inclusive capitalism, transforming industries with visionary leadership and social responsibility.

Neuroscientist and professor at the University of Oxford

Prof. Dr. Newton Howard

Develops AI-controlled brain-computer interfaces for the treatment of neurological disorders.

Member of the German Bundestag, lawyer, author, publicist & moderator

Dr. Gregor Gysi

Influential politician and lawyer, known for his role in the Left. Sets foreign policy highlights and is a successful author.

Chairman of the Committee on National Security and Defense at the Lithuanian Parliament

Giedrimas Jeglinskas

Security politician with NATO experience, leads the Defence Committee of the Seimas and brings international expertise.

CEO and Co-Founder at IQM Quantum Computers

Dr. Jan Goetz

Develops groundbreaking quantum computers for science and industry.

Chief Research Officer at WithSecure

Mikko Hyppönen

Cybersecurity thought leader, known for keynotes and bestsellers, sets standards in cybersecurity and research with pioneering ideas.

CTO at Würth Elektronik eiSos

Alexander Gerfer

Pioneer of sustainable electronics, mentor for green start-ups, connecting technology with responsibility for the environment and society.

CIO at Siemens

Hanna Hennig

Driving force behind Siemens' digital transformation. Committed to gender equality, IT youth initiatives, and sustainable IT standards.

Chief Medical Officer EMEA at GE Healthcare

Prof. Dr. Mathias Goyen

Links clinical expertise with innovative approaches in radiology and oncology to advance global cooperation in healthcare.

Philosopher, author and lecturer

Ariadne von Schirach

Links philosophy and Chinese thought with contemporary issues, their bestsellers explore desire, freedom, and the overcoming of fears.

Psychiatrist, psychotherapist & bestselling author

Dr. Pablo Hagemeyer

Analyzes narcissism and human depths precisely, connecting sharp psychology with provocative insights.

Festival Schedule

The 48forward Festival focuses on key themes of the future: from artificial intelligence and global security issues to sustainable innovations and corporate responsibility. It brings together visionary thinkers who not only discuss but also set new impulses to actively shape change.

DAY ONE

DAY TWO

Entry and registration

Opening

Daniel Fürg & Nico Lumma

Main Stage

The Future Of Democracy

In a world full of uncertainties, the question arises of how we defend and further develop the values of democracy. The track “The Future of Democracy” highlights central challenges: How do we protect our democratic principles in times of change? How do we convey the value of democracy to future generations? And how will democracy evolve to meet the demands of a complex, digital world? It's about finding answers to the questions of tomorrow – today.

Main Stage

Lunch Break

Defence In Uncertain Times

Europe is facing new security policy challenges that require a realignment of defence strategies. The track "Defence in Uncertain Times" questions how Europe can defend itself in the future and what role defence alliances will play in this. Additionally, the significance of international legal frameworks is discussed: What values and principles must be protected to ensure peace and stability? This track brings together experts to find answers to the pressing questions of our global security architecture.

Main Stage

Networking & Special Performances

Partner

The partners of the 48forward Festival play a central role: Without their valuable contribution, the inspiring debates and exchanges would not be possible. Through their support, they actively shape the future and play a crucial part in promoting groundbreaking ideas and innovations.

BECOME A SPONSOR