Youth Against Radicalisation and Ukrainophobia

SALTO Eastern Europe and Caucasus (SALTO EECA), in cooperation with the Polish National Agency for Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, invites youth workers, educators, researchers and youth organisation representatives to an international seminar addressing xenophobia, hate speech, radicalisation and disinformation, with a particular focus on anti-Ukrainian narratives.

The seminar responds to growing concerns about the spread of hate-related content, social polarisation and disinformation targeting vulnerable groups. Special attention will be given to anti-Ukrainian propaganda and its impact on young people and communities, while recognising similarities with other xenophobic and exclusionary narratives across Europe.

The event will provide a platform for reflection, peer learning and exchange of practices on countering hate speech, strengthening resilience to manipulation and disinformation, and promoting inclusive and cohesive communities. Participants will explore the role of youth work and non-formal learning in fostering democratic values, solidarity and social inclusion.

The programme will include expert inputs, presentations of current research, analysis of anti-Ukrainian narratives, workshops on non-formal education methods, exchange of good practices, and discussions on creating safe spaces for young people and strengthening democratic resilience.

Objectives

• analyse anti-Ukrainian hate speech and hate crime in Europe;
• explore links between xenophobia, radicalisation, disinformation and information warfare;
• strengthen youth workers’ competences in preventing and responding to discrimination and hate speech;
• identify effective youth work approaches promoting inclusion, solidarity and intercultural dialogue;
• exchange good practices and develop future cooperation initiatives;
• contribute to safer and more inclusive environments for young people across Europe.

Profile of Participants

The seminar is open to:

• youth workers and youth leaders,
• representatives of youth organisations and NGOs,
• educators and community workers,
• researchers and experts working on youth participation, inclusion, radicalisation or media literacy,

Participants should have an interest in combating discrimination, hate speech, radicalisation and disinformation, and be willing to actively contribute to discussions and exchange of practices.