7. August 2025
Young Voices for a Diverse Society
What happens when young people from different religions and worldviews come together with open minds?
At the interfaith summer festival hosted by the Youth Forum, a space emerged where diversity gave rise to a new sense of connection. Amid rounds of Viking chess and deep conversations about faith, identity, and responsibility, a spirit of togetherness took shape—fueled by openness, curiosity, and a genuine desire to learn from one another.
EXPERIENCING AND UNDERSTANDING DIVERSITY
More than 30 young people from a range of religious and non-religious youth organizations gathered at the interfaith summer festival to exchange perspectives on their beliefs, values, and lived realities. The program was as diverse as the participants themselves—from interfaith speed dating and a panel discussion on social media, identity, and responsibility, to creative games and activities throughout the afternoon.
The willingness to embrace new perspectives was tangible. Especially in times when polarization and exclusion dominate public discourse, we need spaces for dialogue that embraces multiple viewpoints. Such spaces allow the pressure created by global tensions to be processed and transformed constructively.
SOCIAL MEDIA, VISIBILITY, RESPONSIBILITY
The panel discussion featuring Mira Weiss, Martin Attar, Alon Bindes, and Shayan Modabber spotlighted the role of social media: How visible are religious identities on platforms like Instagram? How can we deal with hate speech, prejudice, and narrow-minded thinking? The answer: with personal responsibility, resilience, and mutual solidarity. What’s needed are nuanced voices that challenge simplified narratives and reflect the richness of a diverse society. Because visibility also means taking responsibility—for oneself and for the community.
FROM DISCUSSION TO COMMUNITY
What followed the deep discussions was a sense of community that left a lasting impression. While playing Activity or Viking chess, differences faded into the background. “We just met each other as people,” one participant shared. The issues that had sparked intense debate earlier suddenly seemed secondary. It was about laughter, being together, being present. There was no room for exclusion—only space for connection. As everyone helped clean up at the end of the day, the impact of the experience became clear: no one wanted to leave. They wanted to keep talking, keep building. The desire for long-term collaboration was unmistakable.
EMPOWERMENT FOR STRONGER TOGETHERNESS
For many participants, the event was more than just a summer gathering. It was a space where young people were empowered to actively shape a diverse society.
The day made one thing clear: young people want to be involved, and they are ready to take on responsibility. They just need the opportunity to do so.
Interfaith cooperation project
GLOBAL ETHIC & THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL AFFAIRS, HEALTH AND INTEGRATION
E-ail: cebi@weltethos.org