Ruben Maes
began his career as vice chair of the Dutch Young Liberals of the Dutch Liberal (Conservative) Party, then changed course and joined Niet Nix (Not Nothing), a movement linked to the Dutch Labour Party. In the meantime he has become a much-in-demand chairman and moderator of debates, symposia, and conferences, combining his journalistic intuition with a fine sense of atmosphere. Maes also gives media training and teaches others to become moderators. He studied political science and subsequently joined a research agency focussed on strategic campaign advice. In addition he freelanced for BNR Nieuwsradio and PM Den Haag. Maes founded his own agency, &MAES, in 2003.
Past events
This is Our Way — Public Discussion
This is our way, and that is their way... How do you deal with one another in an environment where so many cultures live side by side? What language do you speak? What do you do on one another's holidays? Tonight three writers—two of them from countries with long histories of multiculturalism—provide ideas for dos and don'ts. No laws, just manners. The public will discuss these ideas. Do we adopt them or not? WithVamba Sherif, Cynthia McLeod, Bas Heijne and moderator Ruben Maes.
Nothing to hide! A debate with the audience
My whole life on Facebook. Or rather, surely not? Together with host Ruben Maes we try to find out the do's and don't's. Writer and philosopher Connie Palmen, expert on primates Jan van Hooff and Maurits Martijn, a journalist and expert in the field privacy and surveillance, help us out. In Dutch.
The Third Chamber of Parliament
Third Chamber chair Ruben Maes invites you to debate, interrupt, and introduce amendments. Bring true democracy closer. Even if it is just for one evening. Five guests will spark off the debate: philosopher Maxim Februari, cultural historian Thomas von der Dunk, journalist Paul van der Gaag and writers Christine Otten and David Van Reybrouck enter into a discussion with you. In Dutch.
