Youth and Multiculturalism in Austria - Session 2: Promoting Peaceful Coexistence

On February 11th, we held the second session of our Youth and Multiculturalism lecture/ discussion series.

Panelists included Džemal Šibljaković, lecturer at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences and a coach for deradicalization, Martha Bißmann, former member of parliament, and Anastasia Fusco, adviser on youth and security in the office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

Šibljaković highlighted the need for a new narrative, promoting a more peaceful coexistence in society.

Bißmann mentioned the multicultural and diverse background in Austria, and how we need to embrace this rather than overlooking it. She emphasised the positive impact of multicultural festivals to celebrate our diversity. Furthermore, she explained the need for more diverse representation in parliament, like that of New Zealand or Canada.

Fusco mainly explained that OSCE is focusing on the humanistic side of things, such as human rights. They are working on political policies and are offering training and education to young people.

After came a lively discussion with the audience, it was great to have a diversity of thought and representation within the event.