Reflections, revelations, and the human side of power (Event in Dutch, starts at 19h30)
After years at the heart of Belgian politics, Petra De Sutter is stepping away from the spotlight. In her candid new book, 'Dagboek van een politica', she opens the door to a world few get to see: the daily realities of political life during a pivotal election year—and her final one in office.
Join us for an intimate conversation between Petra De Sutter and journalist Fien Sabbe. Together, they’ll explore the behind-the-scenes moments, ethical dilemmas, and quiet triumphs that shaped her final year as Deputy Prime Minister.
From committee rooms to cabinet crises, from party tensions to unexpected alliances, this evening offers a personal, unfiltered look at the life of a public servant—told not in soundbites, but in stories. Woven throughout are glimpses of Petra’s off-duty life: books, food, friendships, and moments of stillness in a relentless political rhythm.
Event programme:
– Welcome word
– In-depth conversation with Petra De Sutter, moderated by Fien Sabbe
– Reception and book signing
speaker
Petra De Sutter is a Belgian physician, academic, and politician who, in October 2025, assumed the role of Rector of Ghent University. Her career spans medicine, politics, and academia, marked by a steadfast commitment to ethical leadership and social justice.
Born in Oudenaarde in 1963, De Sutter earned her medical degree from Ghent University in 1987 and completed a PhD in biomedical sciences in 1991. She specialized in gynaecology, focusing on reproductive medicine, and led the fertility clinic at Ghent University Hospital from 2008 to 2019. As a full professor, she contributed significantly to research in embryology and stem cell biology, authoring over 400 scientific publications .
De Sutter entered politics in 2014 with the Flemish Green party, Groen. She served as a Belgian Senator (2014–2019), Member of the European Parliament (2019–2020), and Deputy Prime Minister in the federal government from 2020 to 2025. In these roles, she championed public service reform, digitalization, and LGBTQIA+ rights. Notably, she became Europe’s first openly transgender minister, advocating for inclusivity and equality .
In April 2025, De Sutter was elected Rector of Ghent University, securing a majority across all voting groups. She began her term in October 2025, alongside Vice-Rector Herwig Reynaert .
moderator
Fien Sabbe is a prominent Belgian media professional and legal expert, whose career spans broadcasting, journalism, and law. Born in Waregem in 1966, she studied law and theatre sciences at KU Leuven before beginning her career at the public broadcaster VRT. Sabbe’s voice became familiar to many through her work on Radio Donna and Radio 1, and she later transitioned to television, presenting cultural programs such as L!nk on Canvas and hosting the Golden Owl Literature Prize ceremonies for a decade. 
In 1994, Sabbe broke new ground as the first woman to support the VRT sports team. She also contributed to the Zeno supplement of De Morgen with in-depth interviews. Her passion for literature led her to co-found and moderate the literary program Uitgelezen, engaging audiences in thoughtful discussions with authors.  
In 2013, Sabbe expanded her professional scope by becoming a lawyer and certified mediator, specializing in family and juvenile law. Since 2020, she has served as a deputy justice of the peace in Ghent. 
