02.06.2025 EUPeace at the University of Calabria: three social dialogue events for peace, justice and inclusion

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As part of the European project EUPeace, the University of Calabria has recently promoted three events fostering dialogue between academia and society. These initiatives were designed to stimulate reflection, exchange and active participation on crucial issues related to social inclusion, civic coexistence, and justice. Through these moments, the University continues to establish itself as a key actor in building bridges between academic knowledge, citizenship, and the local community—working toward a culture of peace based on listening and shared responsibility.

The first event, titled “Frontiere. Rights, Citizenship, Fraternity, Interculture”, took place on 3 April 2025. It was promoted by the Migrantes Office and Caritas of the Archdiocese of Cosenza-Bisignano, with the University of Calabria participating within the EUPeace framework. The event featured a session of analysis and testimonies involving academics and representatives of local organisations, followed by idea generation workshops within the EUPeace Living Lab of the University. The initiative engaged students, third-sector professionals, and institutional representatives in a full day of dialogue and collaborative work on migration, focusing particularly on the topics of “migration and health” and “migration and fair labour”. The participatory and transdisciplinary format enabled the sharing of skills and experiences, and encouraged the co-creation of ideas and strategies rooted in real-world issues. “Frontiere” was officially recognised as a Bridge Dialogue Format for its impact in raising awareness and fostering meaningful exchanges between academia and society on key social challenges.

This first initiative was followed by the final event of the 4th edition of the Championship of Values organised by Fondazione Merita on 20 May, which involved 470 pupils from nine primary schools across Southern Italy and the Islands. The Championship offered an educational journey focused on civic values such as respect, listening, kindness, and solidarity—blending play with deep reflection. The event took place in the Aula Caldora of the University, with the participation of students from the Mendicino Comprehensive Institute and remote contributions from other schools. The children presented the outcomes of their year-long work to a large audience that included students from the University’s Education Sciences programmes. For its ability to bring together schools, communities, and academia around a shared goal of civic education, the Championship of Values was also officially designated as a Bridge Dialogue Format.

Finally, on 21 May, to mark the UN World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, an event was held in Cosenza in collaboration with the UNESCO Club and the non-profit association Stella Cometa. Representing the University of Calabria, Prof. Emanuela Pascuzzi—Coordinator of WP7 “Societal Dialogue” for EUPeace and the University’s Delegate for Social Mission—emphasized the key role of the university as a place of both academic instruction and human development. The discussion highlighted the value of intercultural education and the conviviality of differences as essential tools for promoting peace and social justice. This initiative was likewise recognised as a Bridge Dialogue Format, thanks to its contribution in strengthening networks between academic institutions and grassroots organisations committed to human rights.

Through these three events, the University of Calabria strengthens its engagement in the EUPeace project and reaffirms its role as a bridge between generations, communities, and cultures—contributing to the construction of a more just, inclusive, and united Europe.