Co-written by Julie DE CESARIS & Marilou BREDA
In today’s globalised world, people from different cultures meet more often than ever before. The encounters enrich communities, but due to many factors, otherness sometimes also leads to misunderstandings, stereotypes and prejudices. Intercultural dialogue helps prevent these tensions by encouraging people to speak openly, listen to one another and build mutual understanding.
The Council of Europe defines intercultural dialogue as “an open and respectful exchange of views between individuals, groups with different ethnic, cultural, religious and linguistic backgrounds.” [1] This definition highlights two key ideas: dialogue must be both open and respectful, and it must aim to create understanding rather than judgement.
In fact, intercultural dialogue is especially important in adult education. Adults may have fewer opportunities to reflect on their own cultural background or to learn about others in a structured way. Adult education can provide a safe space to explore identity, ask questions, challenge biases and gain new perspectives. When learners feel heard, valued, and respected, they are more likely to engage positively with cultural diversity.
This type of dialogue also helps address wider societal challenges such as nationalism, xenophobia and Euroscepticism. By strengthening skills such as empathy, active listening and critical thinking, adult education supports a more inclusive and cohesive society, and contributes to increase communication, reduce misinformation and turn otherness’ apprehension into self-awareness of bias and stereotypes.
Examples from museums, sports programmes and community projects across Europe show the positive impact of intercultural dialogue. When people share their stories, work together or create something collectively, barriers begin to fall and trust increases.
In short, intercultural dialogue supports adults better understanding themselves, others, and the diversity of the societies they live in, contributing to an active, inclusive and empowering European citizenship.
[1] Council of Europe. (2008). White Paper on Intercultural Dialogue: Living together as equals in dignity [PDF]. Council of Europe. https://www.coe.int/t/dg4/intercultural/source/white%20paper_final_revised_en.pdf
