Our lectures
Voices of influence
Throughout the years, we have had the privilege of inviting a diverse range of influential speakers to share their insights with us. Our lecturers have included environmental activists, journalists, ambassadors, and politicians, all contributing to rich discussions on global affairs.
Past speakers include notable figures such as Herbert Tingsten, Per-Anders Fogelström, Alva and Gunnar Myrdal, Olof Palme, Günther Wallraff, Boutros Boutros-Ghali, Anna Lindh, Hans Blix, Mohamed El-Baradei, Carl Bildt, Göran Persson, Kofi Annan, Ban Ki-Moon, Jan Eliasson, Stefan Löfven, and Ulf Kristersson.
The lecture group is committed to organizing events with leading personalities from all areas of global politics and society, ensuring that our members stay informed on the most relevant and pressing issues.
Follow UF Uppsala on social media to get the latest updates on upcoming lectures.
The committee
2024 - 2025
Join the planning
Become a Lecture Trustee
At UF Uppsala, one of our key missions is to foster a deeper understanding of global affairs. The Lecture Group is central to this effort, organizing thought-provoking talks on a wide range of international topics. If you’re passionate about a specific subject or have a speaker in mind you’d like to bring to Uppsala, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
At the start of each operational year (around August/September), we recruit new trustees for our lecture program. Trustees work closely with the Heads of Lecture to organize and facilitate key events, playing an integral role in shaping the program.
As a collaborator, you’ll work together to:
- Identify and invite renowned speakers, including journalists, writers, politicians, and professors.
- Plan engaging lectures and events.
- Discuss current global issues and political trends in a collaborative setting.
The role is flexible—join meetings and events based on your interest and availability. Plus, being part of this group offers valuable networking opportunities and experience in event planning.
What We’re Looking for in Trustees
We are looking for responsible, independent, and motivated individuals with strong organizational and interpersonal skills. As a trustee, you will contribute to brainstorming ideas, planning, coordinating, and executing events while supporting a sense of community within UF Uppsala.
UF Uppsala offers resources to support your work, and in return, you will gain experience in leadership, event planning, and coordination. This role provides an opportunity to expand your professional network and develop skills that will benefit your future career.
Interested in joining? Apply to become an Activity Trustee and contribute to meaningful and well-organized events.
You can always send an e-mail to the Heads of Lecture and ask if there is any active recruitment.
Are you the next head of Lecture?
The operational year at UF Uppsala begins on July 1st.
Each spring (April–May), applications for positions open through our website and social media channels. If your profile matches a role you’ve applied for, you’ll be invited for an interview. The Election Committee will then review candidates and nominate individuals for each position.
The final decision is made at the Spring Annual Meeting, where UF Uppsala members vote to elect the new board. Most roles include a seat on the board, giving you voting rights and a key role in shaping the association. Board members are expected to attend monthly meetings throughout the year.
Profile for a Head of Lecture
As Head of Lectures, you will lead the organization of UF Uppsala’s lecture series and panel discussions, overseeing one event each week throughout the year. You will be responsible for the entire process—from the initial idea to the execution of the lecture. This involves detailed planning, communication with speakers and various internal teams, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
Strong organizational skills and comfort in social situations are key to succeeding in this role. The position is demanding, requiring significant time and energy. However, it offers rewarding experiences, including attending inspiring lectures and engaging with thought-provoking speakers and guests.
Since the role is shared with another Head of Lectures, you will have flexibility and the opportunity to support each other, particularly during busy periods like exams.
The UF lecture series is well-established, but there is always room for growth. We strive to diversify the program and introduce new perspectives that will attract a wider audience. This position offers exciting opportunities to connect with speakers, expand your network, and gain invaluable insights. It’s both a challenging and rewarding role, with ultimate responsibility for a program that attracts thousands of attendees each year.
This role is central to the association, and leading it is a unique and enriching experience.
For more details or if you have any questions, please reach out to our current Head of Lectures at program@ufuppsala.se.
