Kristin Henrard & Gwenny Thomassen
House of Sustainable Transitions
Learning Circle: Reflections on the intersection between justice and the economy
This session begins by briefly unpacking the concepts of justice and economy: examining what each means, what values they embody, and how they shape our societies. Rather than treating them as abstract ideas, we explore how justice concerns fairness, rights, and recognition, while the economy governs how resources, labour, and value are distributed. Participants are then invited to bring forward examples or themes where these two domains intersect in their own contexts. Through collective reflection, we will examine how economic structures can both enable and constrain justice. The aim is not to reach agreement, but to open space for new perspectives on what a just economy could look like.
Time
Stage
Hands (A.1.23)
13h30 - 14h30
Short bio
Kristin Henrard is a professor of international law at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, specialising in human rights, including the right to equal treatment and the role of international courts. Her research explores how human rights frameworks can advance justice and inclusion.
Gwenny Thomassen is a professor in sustainability transitions at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Her work integrates circularity, environmental and economic performance, and business and policy strategies to enable sustainable innovations in practice.