Focus of the event was the presentation of recommendations for the European Union from the DialogUE project – “Diverse Identities Allied, Open, to Generate a United Europe” on issues crucial to the current European and world situation, summarized in the “DialogUE Kit” brochure.

“You can see with the naked eye that something happens when people of peace talk,” said MEP Catarina Martins of the European Left, who opened the meeting in a hall of the European Parliament. “And this is just such a moment. Dialogue is a powerful tool for peace.”

The project stems from the decades-long commitment of New Humanity, an expression of the Focolare Movement, which has significantly promoted good practices in interreligious and intercultural dialogue. The approach fosters mutual respect and trust, essential elements for fruitful dialogue and collaborative efforts.

Francisco Canzani, general counselor for the Culture and Study area of the Focolare Movement emphasized in his speech that dialogue is built from three elements: attitudes, tools, and method. On the latter, the method of differentiated consensus and qualified dissent, which originated within the platform between Christians and Marxists DIALOP, is now a source of inspiration and practice for other dialogue groups.

In 2023 and 2024, the project involved 4 dialogue groups in 3 main areas: Communication, Ecology and Social Policy. The dialogue groups were:

• Among Christian citizens through the Together4Europe platform.
• Between Christians and Muslims through the Focolare Movement’s Center for Interreligious Dialogue.
• Between Christians and people who do not identify with a religious belief, through the DIALOP platform for cross-religious dialogue
• Between Western and Eastern European citizens through the Multipolar Dialogue Group.

The project mainly facilitated the dissemination of the meaning and methodologies necessary for effective dialogue. It also brought together international experts on these three key challenges, who helped participants understand the main EU documents on these topics and explore the different dimensions of each theme.

The groups worked together to identify shared principles and common proposals. Their work led to recommendations that were submitted to the European Parliament.

The DialogUE project — was promoted by a consortium of 14 civil society organizations from 9 EU member countries.

Among the main results achieved by the project: 12 international meetings and a training for facilitators and experts; the direct involvement of 1,200 citizens and more than 10,000 indirectly; and the creation of the “Dialogue Kit,” intended for educators, NGOs, and policymakers to promote dialogue and social cohesion. These meetings resulted in shared recommendations for EU decision makers to promote more inclusive and sustainable policies.

In the afternoon of October 16, a discussion group hosted by KU Leuven (University of Leuven) in Brussels was held, during which participants analyzed some good practices that emerged from the project and discussed how to further disseminate these initiatives through the ‘Dialogue Kit.

For information about the project: https://www.new-humanity.org/en/project/dialogue/

To review the event click here:

Fisrt published by focolare.org.

L'articolo Final Conference of the DialogUE Project presents and discusses recommendations created by 4 dialogue groups in the European Parliament proviene da New Humanity.

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Starting in September 2024, the Online Training Course: “Project Design and Strategic Planning” invites youth and professionals to participate in an enriching experience aimed at promoting social inclusion in the Mediterranean region and fostering exchanges between Africa and Europe. This innovative initiative, powered by the M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW and AFR.E.S.H projects, seeks to equip participants with essential skills to design impactful and sustainable social projects.

ACCESS THE CALENDAR

Who Can Join?

While the primary participants include staff and volunteers from partner organizations, the training is open to a wider audience, including:

• Staff from the International Focolare Movement Center (MdF)
• Regional project development offices
• Youth centers and dialogue coordinators
• Educators, young professionals, and staff from other social organizations interested in enhancing their skills.

Training Goals

• Learn how to enhance the sustainability of their organizations and improve youth inclusion.
• Develop a strategic mindset for project design.
• Strengthen their ability to prepare high-quality project proposals.
• Gain skills to act as multipliers, sharing knowledge within their networks.
• Identify additional training needs for future learning opportunities.
• Build capacity for effective networking and collaboration.

Course Structure

• Phase 1 (2 sessions): An introduction to strategic planning and project design, exploring the general concepts and their interconnection.
• Phase 2 (4 sessions): A deep dive into project evaluation, impact assessment, and advocacy, focusing on how to influence local and international institutions.
• Phase 3 (5 sessions): Detailed analysis of individual project phases, providing hands-on learning opportunities.

Language and Accessibility

While the training will primarily be conducted in Italian, modules will be available in English, French, Spanish, Croatian, Portuguese and Arabic. 

Course Logistics

• Schedule: The first two phases will take place in the evenings from 7:15 PM to 9:15 PM (CET), while the third phase will be held in the afternoons from 1:45 PM to 3:45 PM (CET).
• Platform: Sessions will be conducted via Zoom, with materials and recordings available on a shared Drive.

Costs and Registration

The training is free for staff and volunteers from partner organizations in the M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW and AFR.E.S.H projects. It is also free for participants from non-EU countries. For other European participants not affiliated with partner organizations, there is a nominal fee of €15. Registration and payment details will be provided upon sign-up.

Certification

Participants who attend at least 80% of the sessions will receive a certificate of participation from New Humanity. Additionally, participants under 30 years old will receive a Youthpass certificate, validated by the European Union.

Sign Up Now! Register here. 

Join us in shaping a brighter future for youth across the Mediterranean through the Online Training Course: “Project Design and Strategic Planning”!

L'articolo Introducing the Online Training Course: “Project Design and Strategic Planning” proviene da New Humanity.

From May 30 to June 2 in Castel Gandolfo (RM), the second of three job shadowing meetings was held as part of the Erasmus+ project “M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW,” with the participation of educational partners from France, Spain, Italy, Croatia, Egypt, and Lebanon.

The project aims to facilitate a pedagogical exchange between associations from Mediterranean countries working with youths aged 13 to 17, focusing on minors with a migratory background. The goal is to renew and enhance educational programs in a multidisciplinary and integrated manner and to implement them for the benefit of the young people in contact with these organizations. 

During the meeting, work sessions on the presentation and exchange of methodologies opened with the integration of minors with a migratory background. Azione Famiglie Nuove presented the “Fare Sistema Oltre l’Accoglienza” (FSOA) project, a program of social and occupational inclusion. Significant were the testimonies of Steve and Mamhou, respectively an educator at Casa Ismaele in Calabria, and a young person previously accommodated there. They highlighted key aspects such as the importance of welcoming, accepting differences, building support networks in the community, and especially a personalized intervention approach for each foreign minor under their care, with whom an individualized educational pact is carried out. This tool was appreciated by all educators present. The narratives showed how understanding others leads to overcoming prejudices and stereotypes, forming the basis for effective inclusion. Additionally, the effectiveness of the peer-to-peer methodology implemented by already integrated young foreigners towards their peers was highlighted.

Educational programs on peace education and active citizenship were then presented, including the international project “Living Peace” and the methodology “Six Steps for One Goal” (6X1), inspired by Service Learning. These are promoted in schools and other informal educational settings for youth in many countries. The proposed pedagogical tools led to shared work and a commitment to apply these methods in various contexts, with active participation of young people, creating exchange relationships, dialogue, and conflict resolution.

The testimonies of some young peace ambassadors were a moment of great involvement, demonstrating how peace starts from each individual and begins with small daily actions that every young person can take, with amplified impacts in their living context.

The following days were dedicated to intercultural and interreligious dialogue, through sharing methodologies and best practices that value dialogue, respect for others’ beliefs, and building relationships based on the Golden Rule found in major faiths, summarized as “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Facilitated by the context of the international symposium “One Human Family,” which included over 400 participants – Jews, Muslims, Sikhs, Hindus, Baha’is, and representatives of traditional African religions – the role of religions in weaving bonds of fraternity was highlighted. Testimonies from people in different conflict contexts demonstrated that engaging with others transforms many polarizations into supportive human relationships.

Discussions with educators addressed current issues such as the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence on dialogue with new generations, and economic and environmental sustainability. The ongoing exchange of methodological approaches and between educators from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds has strengthened the intercultural competencies necessary for the interweaving of peoples and cultures in the Mediterranean. It has laid the foundation for more effective educational action for young people, based on an approach that better meets their needs and requirements.

Collaboration, network creation, organizational growth, and the enhancement of intercultural and interreligious dialogue emerged as key elements for creating a spirit of fraternity and peace in the Mediterranean basin.

Discover the project: https://www.new-humanity.org/project/mediterranew/

Lead organization: Centro Internazionale Studenti Giorgio La Pira – Fondazione.

Project partners: New Humanity; Fondazione Igino Giordani; Humanité Nouvelle; United World for Social Services; Cooperativa Gen Rosso; Azione Famiglie Nuove; Udruga Za Ekonomiju Zajednistva; Fonds Focolari Actions Solidarité.

L'articolo Network and Dialogue for the Creation of a Spirit of Unity and Peace in the Mediterranean Basin proviene da New Humanity.

Answering cross-continental challenges and aiming to prepare for this potent collaboration, AFR.E.S.H project offers training designed to provide practical, hands-on experience. Through international online exchanges, participants can share best practices, gain intercultural perspectives, and consider local implications of global challenges. The courses are flexible and accessible online, allowing you to learn at your own pace and convenience. 

Training Programs Offered by AFR.E.S.H 

 Media Literacy Training for Youth Workers 

Are you a youth worker looking to facilitate more engaging and interactive online meetings and workshops? This training program equips you with the tools and best practices to make digital spaces more dynamic and participatory. Under the guidance of facilitator Rainer Gude, you’ll have the chance to practice new tools and techniques in a supportive environment. 

 Social Impact Evaluation Workshop 

If you’re part of an NGO or association looking to enhance your program evaluation skills, this workshop is for you. Facilitated by Giuseppe Pellegrini, this interactive course teaches you how to develop effective evaluation strategies for your programs. You’ll learn to design and implement monitoring systems and analyze results to improve your organization’s impact. 

The AFR.E.S.H project is more than just a series of training programs; it’s a movement to empower young leaders and foster transnational cooperation. By participating in these programs, you can gain the skills needed to navigate and address the complex challenges facing our world. Join us in redefining the horizon between Africa and Europe—together, we can build a better future. 

L'articolo Building Skills for a Better Future: access AFR.E.S.H training materials proviene da New Humanity.

AFR.E.S.H. representatives played a pivotal role in the event, contributing to inspiring experiences and insights. Check the videos below:

Learn more: https://www.new-humanity.org/en/project/afr-e-s-h/

L'articolo AFR.E.S.H. participants are protagonists of global event to foster peace and unity proviene da New Humanity.

The first day’s work session focused on intercultural aspects. The “Centro Internazionale studenti Giorgio La Pira” presented to the partners the vision of Mayor Giorgio La Pira, its operational mechanisms, and the “Crescendo” project, which is an intervention in global citizenship education in secondary schools. International colleagues had the opportunity to attend an interactive presentation of the “Crescendo” project and were also actively involved in the project experience. As the guests admitted, the presentation made them realize the deep-rooted stereotypes in our minds and society and the resulting narratives, which often lead to conflict situations.

As Anna from the “Living Peace – International” organization concluded:

“It is very important to work with conflicts and live through them, (…) they are part of our life; we cannot simply close our eyes or run away. It is important to experience them together to better understand it and ourselves. Stereotypes create prejudices, and this cannot lead to peace. Only by living together can we all understand this better, which is a crucial preventive step for further conflict escalation.”

Our French partners added:

“To maintain peace, it is essential to work and educate our children to help them grow and become human beings capable of conflict management and aware of the importance of peace.”

During the second day’s work session, the center shared the teaching method of the Italian language and culture “Italian in Florence,” a language school with a specific intercultural and inclusive methodology. The guests were introduced to the Center’s long-term project where language is seen as a key tool for integration and a crucial aspect of creating dialogue. Our foreign guests had the opportunity to look behind the scenes of the Italian language courses and, for those with no prior knowledge of Italian, to learn something new.

“Mare Nostrum” or “Our Sea” was the Roman name for the Mediterranean Sea, encapsulating a sense of regional belonging. Only by creating networks, improving dialogue among people, and focusing on humanity and collaboration instead of competition, can we strengthen the sense of broader regional inclusion. The “M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW” project held two work sessions in Florence, which created new collaborative networks across the sea and made some steps towards transforming the Mediterranean Sea from a basin of death into a more inclusive Mare Nostrum.

L'articolo Network in the Mediterranean Sea for Youth Education proviene da New Humanity.

The “Mediterranean” is currently a priority theme within the framework of the European Union, as a way to encourage, especially among the younger generations, an exchange that promotes inclusion and dialogue. In this context the Erasmus+ project, co-financed by the European Union, was born with the title: “M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW: Mediation, Emotions, Dialogue, Interculturality, Talents to foster youth social inclusion in the Mare Nostrum”, in which New Humanity NGO acts as a partner entity together with 8 others from 5 countries (Italy, Spain, Croatia, France, Lebanon and Egypt) of the Mediterranean basin.

The genesis of the project is linked to previous significant experiences of the partners to promote initiatives of exchange, education, international volunteering, social inclusion of young people coming from familiar contexts of migration. Moreover, recent international conferences, such as those held in 2022 in Florence and in 2023 in Marseille, support the objectives of “MediterraNEW” to underline the educational and peace commitment of all participating entities.

The project is aimed at educators and trainers in the broadest sense of the word and will allow the sharing of good practices in different fields, will value the different experiences and will highlight the complementarities of interventions in the fields of well-being/affection and intercultural and interreligious dialogue, art, conflict mediation and reconciliation to promote integral and inclusive education. It is articulated in different phases where face-to-face and online training meetings are scheduled, as well as the elaboration of a multimedia pedagogical kit that each entity will have to adapt to the situation of its own country and to the social reality where it develops its activity.

In mid-February, a meeting of the project managers of the various entities was held in Florence, the city that hosts the headquarters of the “Centro Internacional La Pira”, the general coordinator of the project. It was a meeting to plan the various stages of the project and to get to know each other. The first two face-to-face training meetings will be held between April and May (Loppiano/Florence and Rome); the third will not take place until September and will be held in Beirut.

Access the project’s webpage to know more.

First published by Fundación Igino Giordani.

L'articolo Get to know the project that will train 180 project managers working with youth in the Mediterranean area proviene da New Humanity.

Participants discussed the importance of a holistic vision of ecology, which concerns the physical environment and our relationship with creation and each other. This vision, termed “ecology of relationships,” emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms and the need to act together to address global challenges. The centrality of human and divine relationships in this context was highlighted, with an appeal for greater solidarity and collaboration.

Among the speakers, Professor Nicolaos Asproulis, Vice-Director of the Academy of Volos (Greece) for theological studies, emphasized the importance of interpersonal relationships and communion as a foundation for addressing ecological challenges. Professor Stefania Papa from the University of Campania delved into the intrinsic relationality of nature, highlighting how every living being is part of a complex network of interactions.

The experts’ interventions underscored the importance of integrating ecological principles into various dimensions of daily life. Various initiatives were presented, from renewable energy communities to promoting sustainable investments. The urgency of systemic changes at the global level to address environmental and social challenges was also discussed.

The event highlighted the importance of receiving and implementing the teachings of Laudato Si’, the Pope’s document that has had a significant impact beyond the Catholic world. Ecumenism emerged as a key element in addressing environmental challenges, with various churches and religious organizations collaborating to promote integral ecology.

Dr. Nikolaos Asproulis, with his background in Eastern theological vision, articulated the centrality of human relationships in the context of divine creation. Don Emanuel Enrique Barrios, Secretary-General of COMECE in Brussels, instead focused on the reception of the principles of Laudato Si’ in ecclesial and social life.

Dr. Lorna Gold of Faithinvest offered a financial perspective, emphasizing the importance of changing investment systems to promote responsible management of financial resources.

Finally, concrete experiences of applying inclusive ecology, embracing both the natural and social environment, were shared. From local actions to reduce noise pollution to ecumenical initiatives for the conservation of creation, a wide range of practices aimed at promoting positive change emerged. These on-the-ground experiences further enriched the debate and underscored the importance of translating ecological ideals into concrete actions for a tangible impact on our world.

Find here the texts of the speakers.

L'articolo Called to unity – Toward an ecology of relationships proviene da New Humanity.

From January 16th to 18th, youth from Germany, Italy, Slovakia, Lithuania, Austria, and Hungary had the opportunity to engage in various dialogues with key figures in sustainability, including representatives of the European Green Deal and committed politicians. The journey provided a chance to connect all the locally conducted activities to the reality of the EU institutions. Mátyás Nemeth, from Hungary, states: “This trip to Brussels is very interesting because we can meet people from other countries and share experiences we had back home. We learned how much the European Union has been doing for ecology and how local activities can effectively influence EU decisions.”

Each country developed different activities aligned with their local realities, always emphasizing two common values: sustainability and inclusion. These were moments when the young people engaged with various realities, including Gypsies and Rom, people with disabilities, and youth from foster homes and those incarcerated. From Italy, Ludovica Cesarone shares how the project changed her life: “I know myself, but I don’t know how deeply I understand myself. This project has given me the opportunity to integrate, make friends, and create relationships with incredible people.” 

Three pillars guided this transformative journey: Responsible Citizenship, Green Trainings & Activities, and Sensitization Through Communication. These themes formed the foundation for participants to deepen their understanding of sustainability and its various dimensions. 

The immersive experience began with a visit to the European Council, where an informative session about the functioning of the European institutions set the tone. Subsequent visits included the European Parliament, the European Environmental Bureau (EEB), COMECE, the German Representation, and the Green European Foundation. Each visit served not only as a tour but also as an opportunity for participants to engage in meaningful dialogues, fostering connections and understanding. 

The project goes beyond practical actions and has a profound impact on the youth, helping to shape them into individuals who are agents of change in the world, equipped with values such as empathy and self-knowledge. “With this project I learned to think also about the other, the importance of not being indifferent. Reflecting about consumerism, we learned about child labor in Bangladesh – when I think about it, I’m sure we need to change the way we consume”, Mária Krištofíková from Slovakia shares her learnings. 

Inclusion is at the heart of sustainability. Protecting the planet and ensuring the sustainability of life on earth depends on the commitment and participation of everyone, regardless of their background, culture, language, or economic situation. Juan Camilo Poveda, coordinator of the Austrian group, emphasizes: “Initiatives like this are very important because young people want to get involved, they want to learn. This is the opportunity to change a whole generation.” The stories shared by participants reflect not just a commitment to sustainability but a collective understanding of the importance of responsible citizenship, nurturing a generation that seeks to redefine the future.

Check out the highlights of this journey!

L'articolo Greenclusive in Brussels: bridging local actions to global impact proviene da New Humanity.

Abandoned nuclear power plants evoke images of desolation, with Chernobyl standing as a haunting reminder of the potential consequences. Ignalina, another nuclear center located in Lithuania, shares the same landscape with a troubled history. Notably, it served also as the backdrop for the HBO TV series Chernobyl.  

Reaching out to the excluded and planting seeds of hope are part of the mission of the Greenclusive project. The participants decided to act locally at Visaginas, the youngest city in Lithuania, and is primarily known for the nearby Ignalina Nuclear Power Plant, construction of which began in 1978. 

Scoping out the territory, investigating the challenges 

Ignalina’s struggles are deeply rooted, and the nearby city of Visaginas bears the burden of an aging nuclear infrastructure. Although the nuclear power plant has been closed, the burial and storage of radioactive waste remain a significant problem and has caused significant damage to Lithuania’s largest lake, Lake Drūkšiai, and its flora and fauna.  

The city faces a number of socio-environmental challenges, such as low birth rate, aging population, disabilities, substance addiction, and psychological, physical, or sexual abuse. Additionally, there are challenges such as unemployment and migration. The environmental quality in the municipality is deemed inadequate due to escalating air and water pollution, an underdeveloped waste management system, reliance on diesel for heat, slow housing modernization with reliance on diesel for heat, and a high motorization rate with a dated vehicle fleet and a shortage of electric vehicles. 

In a place where abandoned buildings dot the landscape and waste mars the natural beauty, the question arises: Can ecology and inclusion find a foothold here? 

In Action: Greenclusive Youth’s Bold Initiative 

A group of 9 young people from Lithuania and Estonia embarked on a journey to Visaginas, confronting the complexities of this nuclear-tinged environment. At first, the goal was to observe what is happening in the city, what positive initiatives have been implemented or are in progress, and what problems the city is facing. 

From July 6th to 9th 2023, through the lens of the Greenclusive Project, these youngsters engaged in meaningful actions, such as getting to know the city and the nuclear center, meeting many residents, cleaning the lakeside and visiting the municipality. This collaborative spirit resonated as a testament to the potential for positive change, even in seemingly desolate places. 

The population of Visaginas is predominantly Russian (48%), followed by 20% Lithuanian, and the remainder includes Poles, Belarusians, Ukrainians, and other nationalities. The language barrier complicates communication among diverse communities and makes it harder to engage residents in activities together. Unfortunately, until today, the linguistic divide hinders diverse people and cultures from living in unity and harmony. 

In light of the above, the group had the opportunity to learn about the “Point” Youth Center and its activities. The center brings together young people from different language backgrounds and teaches them mutual tolerance. Those who come to the center can engage freely in various artistic activities, play, create costumes, pursue activities they enjoy, be accepted and respected—respecting each other. 

As a testament to the project’s impact, one of the participants returned to the city after some months for an annual festival. This not only symbolizes the lasting connections formed but also highlights the potential for ongoing positive change. The Greenclusive Project envisions a future where ecological sustainability and social inclusion thrive, especially in the most unexpected and excluded places.  

L'articolo Greenclusive: ecology and inclusion in abandoned nuclear power plant proviene da New Humanity.