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CalmUnity: Transforming Conflict Together

2023-3-AT01-KA152-YOU-0001757012023Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: AT|RS|IT|TR|SK|MK · Grant: €39,831
Prevention of conflicts, post-conflict rehabilitationKey competences development

Objectives

Interpersonal conflicts are a part of life for every person. Most of these conflicts are unavoidable and part of necessary communication. However, it became more prevalent that most of these conflicts were causing more harm than ever before. Mental health issues, broken relationships, aggressive behavior, misunderstandings, and cultural diversity are only some of the consequences. With 'CalmUnity: Transforming Conflict Together,' we aimed to teach non-violent communication to youth to help them tackle these issues. The problem was not the conflicts themselves but the approach that people took when dealing with them. Young people did not know how to deal with interpersonal conflicts. While it was an important element in life, schools did not teach this to young people. In Europe, multiculturalism is prevalent, and conflicts could arise from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Non-Violent Communication created a safe space for open dialogue, allowing young people to share their differences without fear of violence, discrimination, or prejudice. Studies showed that the implementation of NVC programs in European schools led to a decrease in aggressive behaviors among students (Smith et al., 2012). This reduction in aggression contributed to a more peaceful and harmonious school environment. The objectives of this YE were: -Equipping young people with conflict management skills -Reducing cultural diversity through non-violent communication -Familiarizing participants with the Erasmus+ Programme -Reducing aggression and violence among young people and communities -Developing core competencies like English communication, intercultural teamwork, problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and leadership in diverse settings -Cultivating emotional intelligence through active listening, empathetic understanding, and assertive expression of feelings and needs This project used non-formal methods of learning such as theater-based activities, role play, peer-to-peer learning, team-building, and discussions to teach youngsters how to transform conflicts. They learned active listening, using I messages, open dialogue, and understanding. They sought to first understand and then be understood in daily communication. The initiative aimed to make them not afraid to express their needs, feelings, and thoughts. Instead, they used conflict as a stepping stone to build better interpersonal relationships. This led to a more long-lasting impact on their career and personal lifestyle.

Project partners (6)