Festival of Politics 2026 Returns to Holyrood

The Scottish Parliament’s acclaimed Festival of Politics is set to return to Holyrood on 27–28 August 2026, bringing together leading thinkers, politicians, academics, campaigners and public voices for two days of stimulating discussion, debate and inspiration.

The festival promises to tackle some of the most pressing political, social and environmental challenges facing Scotland, the UK and the wider world.

Hosted at the Scottish Parliament Building in Edinburgh, this year’s programme features an impressive range of events designed to encourage public engagement with politics and current affairs. Organisers say the festival will provide a platform for open conversation on topics that affect everyday life, while offering audiences the opportunity to hear directly from expert speakers and influential commentators.

The 2026 programme reflects the complexity of today’s political landscape. Discussions will explore the impact of artificial intelligence, climate change, poverty, housing, education, free speech and the rise of the online “manosphere,” alongside broader questions about trust in institutions and the future of democracy.

Among the highlights on 27 August are sessions examining Brexit ten years on, young people and trust in politics, human trafficking in Scotland, and why social media abuse towards women in politics is damaging democracy. Other events will consider whether AI can help tackle environmental challenges, the future of Scottish colleges and universities, and strategies for stopping child poverty.

A particular attraction is an “In Conversation” event featuring Brenda Hale, Baroness Hale of Richmond, one of the UK’s most distinguished legal figures. The session is expected to offer unique insights into law, politics and public life from one of the country’s most respected voices.

The festival continues on 28 August with a programme that broadens the conversation to global affairs, economic development, culture and public policy. Events include debates on America and China’s geopolitical rivalry, Scotland’s housing challenges, civil disobedience and protest movements, the future of Scotland’s water resources, and the role of culture and sport as instruments of soft power. Attendees will also have the chance to explore questions surrounding Scotland’s economic future and the state of contemporary Scottish architecture.

Festival organisers describe the event as an opportunity for people from all backgrounds to engage with ideas, challenge assumptions and contribute to meaningful discussions about the future. By bringing together diverse perspectives in one of Scotland’s most iconic democratic institutions, the Festival of Politics aims to strengthen public understanding of the issues that shape society.

With its combination of expert panels, thought-provoking debates and topical discussions, the Festival of Politics 2026 is expected to attract audiences from across Scotland and beyond. Whether attendees are seasoned political enthusiasts, students, professionals or simply curious citizens, the festival offers a unique opportunity to participate in conversations that matter.

Tickets for individual events are available through the Festival of Politics 2026 programme. Those interested are encouraged to book early, as many sessions are expected to be in high demand.

For more information and ticket bookings, visit the Festival of Politics 2026 page on Citizen Ticket.