La Nuit des Idées

Night of Ideas 2026: 'Opening the Way' with Zahia Ziouani, Phina So and Vitharo Chan

The 11th edition of the Night of Ideas will take place throughout 2026 on five continents. A flagship event for the work of the Institut Français and its network of cooperation and cultural action in the field of the diplomacy of ideas and knowledge, the Night of Ideas unfolds each year in more than one hundred countries.

Under the theme 'Paving the Way', this year's edition invites participants to explore topics related to youth and emerging voices, inspiring figures and innovative solutions, as well as science and technology as sources of hope.

What to Expect

Democratising access to culture: How does culture help societies imagine answers to contemporary challenges?

The topic of this roundtable invites us to reflect on the fundamental role of artistic creation in our changing societies.

We are honoured to welcome Zahia Ziouani as our guest of honour, accompanied by Cambodian intellectuals, artists and academics. A committed conductor and leading figure in cultural democratisation, Zahia has worked for many years to make music and the arts accessible to all, particularly those who are distanced from cultural offerings. Her career and commitment powerfully illustrate culture's capacity to create connections, broaden horizons, and foster collective responses to contemporary challenges.

With Zahia Ziouani, conductor Phina SO, director of CICADA, and Vitharo CHAN, Dean of the Faculty of Music at the Royal University of Fine Arts.

Roundtable in French, translated into Khmer.

Venue: Institut Français du Cambodge (IFC), Phnom Penh

Date: Friday, 3rd April 2026

Time: 6.30 to 8 pm

Tickets: Free entry (registration required)

Click here for more info and to register.