29 - 30 August 2025

Join us at BŪTENT!

BŪTENT! is Lithuania's foremost live debate festival, inspired by the democracy festivals in the Nordic countries. It brings together diverse voices – from citizens to decision-makers.

people on stage during a seminar at butent festival
Fotograf
norden.lt

BŪTENT! brings together diverse voices – from citizens to decision-makers – to spark bold conversations, challenge ideas, and shape the future through open, constructive dialogue.

Fostering a culture of dialogue is more important than ever. At the Nordic Tent, we bring together Nordic and Lithuanian experts to explore pressing issues such as resilience, sustainability, youth and other. We believe we’re stronger together. Come join us at Būtent on August 29-30 in Vilnius!

AUGUST 29

14:00 When will we see nature not just as a resource, but as our mental health necessity?

Co-hosted by  Environmental Psychology Group of the Lithuanian Psychological Association

15:30 Lines cut, ties strengthened: Nordic-Baltic unity against sabotage

Co-hosted by Geopolitics and Security Studies Center

17:00 How green are we? Let’s look at the numbers!

Co-hosted by embassies of Sweden and Denmark in Vilnius

18:30 A Nordic conversation: 8 years of insight, 8 days of first impressions

Hosted by Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Lithuania 

AUGUST 30

11:00 If children know about online threats, why do they still fall victim?

Co-hosted by embassies of Denmark and Norway in Vilnius and Childline

12:30 From catch-up to forefront: Lithuania’s innovations to drive the Nordic–Baltic region

Co-hosted by Nordic Investment Bank

14:00 The invisible battle: how can we equip society for psychological defense?

Co-hosted by embassies of Finland and Sweden in Vilnius


 

15:30 Is politic only for boomers? Bringing young voices to the table

Co-hosted by embassies of Finland and Norway in Vilnius

17:00 Is critical thinking really available to everyone? Psychological resilience and social politics

Co-hosted by Lithuanian sceptics' society

18:30 No one left behind: addressing diverse learning needs in schools

Co-hosted by Centre for Scandinavian Studies of Vilnius University
 

All discussions will be held in English. For the full programme and list of panelists, please visit here 

Events in focus

AUGUST 29

17:00 How green are we? Let’s look at the numbers! 

Join this panel to explore what people in the Baltic and Nordic countries think about sustainability, based on a new consumer survey. Hear key concerns, barriers to sustainable shopping, and who the public trusts. We’ll be joined by voices from both business and civil society to unpack these questions and share practical ideas.

AUGUST 30

11:00 If children know about online threats, why do they still fall victim?

This discussion explores why awareness alone isn’t enough to keep children safe online. We'll look at the psychological, social, and tech factors behind digital risks, how grooming happens, and the vital role adults play in building children's resilience and critical thinking.

14:00 The invisible battle: how can we equip society for psychological defense?

In today’s tense geopolitical climate, building psychological resilience is crucial. This panel explores how education, government, and media can join forces to counter disinformation and division. Speakers from Finland, Sweden, and Lithuania will share lessons on promoting critical thinking, strategic communication, and media trust to help create a resilient, informed, and democratic society.

15:30 Is politic only for boomers? Bringing young voices to the table

In many democracies, young people remain underrepresented in decisions that shape their future. This panel explores why political power still skews older, the barriers young voices face, and how to dismantle them. Featuring Norway’s youngest-ever mayor and Lithuania’s youngest municipal council member.

Contact

Contact

Kornelija Kunigonyté

Adviser for Communication

kornelija@norden.lt

+370 685 36192