The Oxford Literary Festival is back for it's 27th year, with a focus this year on food security and involving the younger generation.
The festival is known for involving reputable contributors both domestically and internationally to explore the pertinent issues of the day.
This year's event will take place from March 16 to 24.
Event speaker offer diverse opinions and tackle controversial topics in addition to typical subjects of discussion.
The event is held in partnership with the University of Oxford, the Bodleian Libraries and Netflix and takes place in historic venues ordinarily closed to the public.
Visitors are expected from around the globe to witness a celebration of literature, culture and debate.
An expected highlight of the event is NHS GP Dr Amir Khan’s Compassion in World Farming Lecture where he will talk about his passion for wildlife conservation and healthy farming practices.
Animal rights campaigner Gary Francione will also lead multiple panel discussions about the future of food and the prospects for synthetic meats.
Other highlights include a talk sponsored by Oxford United Football Club delivered by ex-Manchester City footballer Nedum Onuoha.
The 'You Ask the Question' panel will take audience queries on key topics.
New addition to the festival Netflix will support Oxfordshire schools to host their own events where students can interact with artists, scientists, illustrators and authors.
Historian Professor Avi Shlaim will shed light on the story of Iraqi Jews trapped between zionism and nationalism.
Dutch student Teun Toebes will share his unique experience living in a nursing home and what he has learnt about dementia in his experience.
Literary contributions include Val McDermid and Ann Cleeves discussing the significance of place in their writing and Joanne Harris reflecting on her life as a novelist on the 25th anniversary of her book, 'Chocolat'.
The festival, directed by Sally Dunsmore, will feature notable Swedish writer Bengt Jangfeldt and will present Ali Smith with the Bodley Medal on account of her extensive contributions to literature.
Festival awards will be presented to Nobel Prize Winner Sir Paul Nurse.
A Pasture-to-Plate weekend is also scheduled to take place on March 16-17, featuring discussions about food politics and vegan meals curated by vegan chef and activist Marlene Watson-Tara.
An array of political and historical figures will also contribute to the programme, including Labour MP Nick Thomas-Symonds, Dame Jessica Rawson, Dr Neil MacGregor, Martin Thomas, Matthew Parker and broadcaster Zeinab Badawi.
The European Literature Prize Winner for 2023, Czech novelist Bianca Bellova, will also grace the event, sponsored by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
In support of the festival, the EBRD will also introduce a new programme centred on Georgian literature and culture.
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