Is free volunteering for paid or “for-profit” events unethical—or a fair exchange of experience for opportunity?

This timely debate examines the moral, professional, and economic tensions surrounding unpaid work in the events industry. As festivals and major events increasingly depend on volunteer labour, critics question whether this practice exploits enthusiasm and devalues professional skills, while others defend it as a legitimate route into a competitive sector.

Join industry leaders, academics, and students as they explore when volunteering supports development—and when it crosses an ethical line.