Changing Values – Intergenerational Dialogue on the Future of Democracy
| Target area: | Higher Education & Human Rights |
|---|---|
| Sub-target area: | Higher Education & Human Rights |
| Target countries: | Austria |
| Duration: | 01/03/2025 – 31/12/2025 |
| Partners: | |
| Budget line: | Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) |
Project description
The activity brings older and younger generations into an active dialogue about democracy, social change and the values of the European Union. Through personal narratives, interactive conversations and artistic forms of expression, past experiences are linked to current challenges and future perspectives.
In storytelling cafés, older people talk about their experiences with democracy – from the post-war period to the Cold War to EU integration. Young people reflect on their own ideas of democracy and, together with the older generation, develop new perspectives on social change. Another central element is a collection of stories in which life experiences are documented in the form of interviews and published as blog posts. Democracy workshops for seniors strengthen their active participation in political processes and offer practical training on topics such as freedom of expression, elections or disinformation.
The project specifically counteracts loneliness among older people, promotes intergenerational exchange and contributes to strengthening social cohesion.
The objectives of this activity are:
- Making experiences visible: Storytelling and discussions document older people's experiences of democracy, solidarity and European identity for young generations.
- Promoting intergenerational exchange: Young and older people reflect together on ideas of democracy, peace and tolerance, strengthen understanding and dialogue.
- Strengthening media literacy: Workshops on social media use, dealing with fake news and freedom of expression promote critical skills among older and younger participants.
- Promote social cohesion: Personal encounters and dialogues reduce loneliness, strengthen respect and mutual understanding.
- Raising awareness of European values: Creative, interactive formats raise awareness of democracy, freedom of expression, solidarity, tolerance, peace and European diversity.