ERASMUS+ CO-EXIST Citizen journalism to address intercultural and interfaith dialogue

The CO-EXIST project aims to support young people to engage in citizen journalism, and to be able to counter biased religious narratives in mainstream media and promote cultural and religious tolerance through social media platforms.

We will work with young people from various faith communities to encourage interfaith dialogue and promote peace and tolerance in European society.

FCB ASBL

crucial. The CO-EXIST project stands as a beacon of hope, aspiring to empower young people to take charge of the narratives that shape our understanding of the world. More specifically, our mission is to equip them with the skills and knowledge to counteract biased religious narratives often perpetuated by mainstream media while fostering cultural and religious tolerance through the powerful medium of social media.

Fostering Youth Empowerment through Citizen Journalism

At the heart of the CO-EXIST project lies the belief that the youth have the potential to be the catalysts for change. We recognize the importance of providing them with the tools and platforms to share their stories, perspectives, and insights. Through citizen journalism, young people can become active participants in shaping the narratives that influence public opinion and policy decisions.

Our program will offer comprehensive training in journalistic skills, including research, fact-checking, writing, and multimedia production. Participants will learn how to critically analyze information sources and report on issues related to religion, culture, and tolerance. By doing so, they will gain the ability to offer balanced, nuanced, and accurate perspectives on complex topics.

Countering Biased Religious Narratives

One of the core objectives of the CO-EXIST project is to challenge and counteract biased religious narratives that persist in mainstream media. All too often, these narratives can lead to stereotypes, misconceptions, and even discrimination. Through citizen journalism, our young participants will become the vanguards of truth and objectivity. They will investigate stories, uncover hidden truths, and present a more comprehensive picture of religious diversity and practice.

We believe that by shedding light on the richness and complexity of religious beliefs and practices, we can bridge gaps of misunderstanding and promote dialogue among faith communities. Through their reporting, our citizen journalists will demonstrate that differences in belief can coexist harmoniously, enriching our shared cultural tapestry.

Promoting Cultural and Religious Tolerance through Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media platforms are not just channels for communication but also powerful tools for change. The CO-EXIST project recognizes the potential of social media to shape public opinion and influence social discourse. Our participants will be trained to leverage these platforms effectively, spreading messages of cultural and religious tolerance far and wide.

Through social media, our citizen journalists will have the opportunity to engage with diverse audiences, fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting peace. They will learn how to create content that resonates with a broad range of viewers and encourages empathy and understanding.

Encouraging Interfaith Dialogue and Peace

Central to the CO-EXIST project is the idea of bringing young people from various faith communities together. We firmly believe that true understanding comes from direct interaction and engagement. Our project will facilitate interfaith dialogues, workshops, and collaborative projects that encourage participants to learn from one another.

By working closely with individuals from different religious backgrounds, our citizen journalists will gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of beliefs and practices. This firsthand experience will inform their reporting, ensuring that it reflects the nuances and complexities of religious communities.

A Vision for a More Tolerant European Society

The CO-EXIST project envisions a European society where cultural and religious tolerance is not just an ideal but a lived reality. Through the efforts of our young citizen journalists, we aim to influence public discourse, challenge stereotypes, and foster a sense of unity amid diversity.

As we embark on this journey, we invite young people from all backgrounds to join us in shaping a more inclusive and understanding society. Together, we can counter biased narratives, promote dialogue, and build bridges of tolerance that lead us towards a brighter, more harmonious future.