The Royal Flemish Academy of Belgium for Science and the Arts (KVAB) is an independent multidisciplinary society. Its membership, nominated and elected by peers, consists of professors, influential business leaders, artists and art experts. Together they aim to contribute to the promotion of science and art. The members of the Academy are divided into four divisions: natural sciences, humanities, arts and engineering sciences. These ‘Classes’, both independently and together, strive to contribute to a number of topics and developments that affect society in short and long term. As a result of their efforts, they formulate recommendations to the government, industry, education and research. They aim to be a valuable addition to the societal debate.