The first weekend of the Bankforum citizens’ panel took place, bringing together 75 selected citizens to discuss the future of digitalisation in the banking sector.
Last weekend in Brussels, 75 randomly selected citizens came together for the first weekend of the citizens’ panel: Bankforum. One key question was at the center: how can a bank innovate digitally while remaining safe and staying close to people? It is a very timely topic. Think, for example, of phishing, the use of AI, the protection of personal data, and the question of whether everyone can easily use a banking app.
During the discussions, it quickly became clear that this topic concerns many people. The first weekend was mainly about getting to know each other and the themes. Participants shared their personal experiences with banks and digital tools. They also spoke with experts and practitioners to better understand different perspectives.
The discussions focused on five major challenges: keeping banking services accessible to everyone, keeping personal data secure, ensuring new technology leads to fair decisions, maintaining proximity with customers, and combating fraud. Based on these discussions, participants determined which priorities the panel will address in the next phase.
Olivier Onclin, Deputy CEO of Belfius, also clarified the purpose of the Bankforum: “Belfius will carefully analyse all the recommendations and consider how we can integrate them into our strategy towards 2030. If certain recommendations are not followed, we will explain why.” Later, the recommendations will be shared with other players in the banking sector and with the wider public.
This was only the beginning. The second weekend will take place on 28 and 29 March. Participants will then debate with each other with the support of facilitators. Experts will also join again to answer questions and reflect further on the central question. During the final weekend on 25 and 26 April, participants will formulate their recommendations based on everything they have learned and discussed during the previous weekends.