Beyond Borders International Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with a line up of writers, broadcasters, politicians, diplomats and artists who will be heading to the magical Traquair House in the Scottish Borders this weekend.
Talks and events will be ongoing throughout the weekend in the main marquee in front of the house and in the old walled garden where there will be music, exhibitions, film, food tastings, meditation sessions and yoga.
The global impact of climate change will take centre stage throughout the weekend including a panel discussion addressing the vital role of women in climate action; a youth climate change summit with school strikers taking part in discussions and events and Carbon Casualties, a photography exhibition from the New York Times which is on display in the garden.
Other programme highlights include the First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, former UN Special Envoy to Syria, Staffan de Mistura and journalists Lindsey Hilsen, Razia Iqbal, Allan Little Jim Naughtie and Sarah Smith. For a historical perspective Professor Bettany Hughes, Sir Tom Devine, Sir Hew Strachan and Rosemary Goring will all be appearing.
The event also welcomes female cultural leaders from Afghanistan, Kashmir, Pakistan, Syria and Yemen to take part in sessions on the art of peace building.
This unique festival which also includes walks, storytelling and bike rides began 10 years ago as the inspiration of Mark Muller Stuart QC who lives at Traquair with his wife, Catherine.
Mark said: “The Festival proves that the thirst for human debate and the desire to listen to the first-hand experiences and stories of others remains undiminished notwithstanding the rise of the digital age. What better place to do it than in the tranquil setting of Traquair in the Scottish Borders!”
