More information
Description
According to the ‘Open Code for Hate-free Communication’ report in Poland, we experience hate speech in daily life more and more often, either in social media or when listening to people speaking in public. At the same time, hate speech fuels xenophobia, antisemitism and racism. Our observations show that the threat of the so-called filter bubbles (described, among others, by Eli Pariser) limiting results displayed during online searches only to content that consolidates our own beliefs, is growing. As a consequence, the lack of contact with contrasting opinions radicalises outlooks which leads to intolerance to different points of view. In reaction to the verdict of the Polish Constitutional Tribunal on abortion, we organised a dialogue circle to meet with people representing different opinions on the topic. Based on feedback obtained from participants, we know that it was a vital experience to them, building understanding between sides. We believe this method to properly address increasing polarisation, creating an opportunity for a dialogue between people representing different views. This is why we will organise 5 nationwide dialogue circles for people with different opinions, to discuss crucial social issues. We will hold 7 organisational and consultative meetings for people representing different backgrounds. They will help us prepare circles, select topics, and recruit participants. Circle moderators will attend a cycle of meetings devoted to emotions, facilitation and their experience. We will organise a support network for circle participants ensuring individual assistance, giving them an opportunity to talk about intense emotions and communicational challenges. We would like 350 individuals to take part in discussion circles, to meet people representing different opinions, and to develop their empathetic communication skills.
Summary of project results
As the report ''Open Code for Hate-free Communication'' points out, in Poland we experience more and more hate speech in our everyday life - in social media or listening to people speaking in public. In turn, hate speech increases xenophobia, anti-Semitism and racism. According to our observations, a major problem is the so-called ''information bubbles'' (described by activist Eli Pariser, among others), which only display content that confirms our views on the internet. As a result, the lack of exposure to dissenting opinions radicalises views, resulting in intolerance of dissenting points of view. In response to the Constitutional Court''s ruling on abortion, we organised dialogue circles to meet people with different views on the subject. We know from talking to participants that this was an important experience for them and built a sense of greater understanding between those present.
We believed that this method responded well to the growing polarisation and provided an opportunity for those with different views to hear each other and express themselves.
The project included a variety of activities that focused on building understanding, dialogue and supporting social diversity.
We conducted opening and closing circles for facilitators. These sessions were important to prepare emotionally for leading the circles and to reflect on their own experience and learn from it. Through these circles, facilitators were able to better understand their roles and responsibilities in the dialogue process.
We also organised organisational and consultation meetings to support the organisation of the circles. These sessions enabled representatives from different circles to meet, exchange views and plan future activities. In this way, we created an environment conducive to dialogue and cooperation.
Finally, we also held open dialogue circles, which took place on the Zoom platform. The aim of these meetings was to provide a space for people from different backgrounds to discuss social issues. They were led by experienced male and female facilitators, and attracted a wide range of participants, demonstrating their relevance and need in society. The circles were a response to current social issues and allowed for a deeper exchange of views and consensus building. Through such events, the community had the opportunity to express their opinions, listen to others and seek common solutions.
In addition, we developed a number of products to support these activities, such as a website, a newsletter, a Facebook group and a digital publication collecting project experiences. These tools allowed us to communicate with participants, promote events and share knowledge and experiences with the wider community.
The recipients of our activities were individuals who had the opportunity to participate in meetings and dialogue circles and express their opinions on issues affecting their daily lives. Our activities were also directed at NGOs and institutions who had the opportunity to cooperate and exchange experiences within the framework of organisational and consultative meetings. In this way, the project contributed to building partnership relations and strengthening capacities for community action.
One of the main outcomes of our project was to increase public awareness of the importance of dialogue, understanding and cooperation between different social groups. Through the organisation of dialogue circles and open meetings, the project contributed to building social ties and strengthening trust between participants.
The impact of the project can also be seen in the context of building the communication and dialogue skills of the participants. By participating in the meetings and using the tools created, those involved in the project were able to develop their skills in listening, expressing their opinions and finding common solutions to social problems.
Another important outcome of the project was the identification and understanding of relevant social problems and the needs of different social groups. Through the discussions and exchange of experiences, project participants had the opportunity to learn more about other people''s perspectives and broaden their horizons of thought.