The project draws the public into the current global debate on human rights with the help of the world's top scientists and artists in the form of large public debates, seminars for teachers and students, texts, an international conference in an elementary school with predominance of Roma children. The project wants to inspire society to an active citizenship that defends human rights in everyday life. It provides an impetus to mobilise especially young people to see human rights and human dignity as central values of society.

The project creates an opportunity for many interactions that would not otherwise take place: between panellists, volunteers, civil society, schools (teachers and students). It will enable the activities of the organisations to be better linked and coordinated internally, thus deepening collaborations with diverse partners so that the content of the project can better penetrate into new settings. The inspirational nature and international framework of these meetings will catalyse new ideas and higher pressure for policies directly targeted at more effective promotion of human rights and a clearer emphasis on human dignity values.

Expected results:

  • 38 schools involved in project activities
  • 50 trained teachers
  • 900 students involved in various project activities
  • more than 7000 people taking part in activities connected with the Central European Forum
  • several awareness raising campaigns

The partner will take part in several project activities through one of its members - Erik Kursetgjerde, a young Norwegian activist, Utøya massacre survivor. His personal testimony could stimulate young people to think about extremism, hatred and similar topics in a way that is accessible to them. The cooperation with the partner opens up new possibilities for networking of Slovak organisations with human rights organisations in Norway and for the preparation of the organisation's activities on Utøya Island.

Summary of bilateral results

The bilateral cooperation yielded significant and diverse results despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. Collaborative efforts with the Norwegian partner and the School of Arts in Žilina resulted in the creation of a comprehensive question-and-answer book, titled "Doing It with a Smile," derived from an online discussion with Erika Kursetgjerde.

The Norwegian partner's pivotal contribution became evident in response to a terrorist incident in 2022. This prompted the modification of activities, and on International Human Rights Day, Lisbeth Royneland, the president of the partner organization, was honored in Bratislava, generating substantial media and public interest.

The collaboration successfully addressed pressing Slovak issues, including intolerance, hatred towards diversity, and challenges faced by LBTI+ and transgender individuals. This engagement occurred during a celebratory evening and workshops, highlighting the partner's commitment to fostering understanding and addressing societal issues.

Workshops conducted in schools, including a primary school with a Roma majority, showcased the partner's value. One school proactively expressed interest in sending students to Utoya, indicating the positive impact and resonance of the collaboration within the community.

Inspired by the partner's experience, the collaborative workshops led to the development of a methodology for future sessions targeting high school students. This methodology aligns with the release of an interview book with Erika Kursetgjerde.

Overall, the results underscore the successful integration of the Norwegian partner's expertise, fostering engagement, promoting dialogue, and actively addressing societal challenges within the Slovak context.

Project details

Project info
Period
2014-2021
Approval date
Grant financing
110700.00€
Final project cost
122878.50€