The questions we sought to answer included: What is the role of adult education in promoting peace? How can we engage in dialogue with people who hold radically different worldviews? What learning opportunities and spaces are available to adults regarding democracy and peace-building? What role does the media play in this?
Highlights from the Colloquium: education as the foundation of a peaceful future
In my introductory presentation, The Culture of Peace in Times of War, I, the author of this article, outlined the concept of a culture of peace, which does not mean merely the absence of violence but actively fostering dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding among people. I emphasised that ALE can strengthen an individual’s capacity for critical thinking, empathy and responsible action.
Peace is connected with other values and with the green transition.
This was followed by a philosophically and ethically framed contribution by Prof Dr Bojan Žalec from the Faculty of Theology, University of Ljubljana. In his discussion Education for Peacefulness in the Light of Relationship Ethics, he emphasised the importance of resonance, empathy and understanding the tragic nature of violence as a path towards peaceful relationships. He stressed the need for an awareness of the tragedy of violence that violates fundamental ethical principles. The tragedy of violating the principles of sanctity lies in the fact that even when justified, even when there is no other choice, it remains inherently wrong.
Three things present both the path and the goal of education for peace: nurturing resonance, fostering empathy and the awareness that all violence is tragic.
Zora Perenda from Cultural club Sevdah, with her presentation Peace Is Not Only the Goal but Also the Path, showcased concrete forms of peace-building in everyday life – from artistic expression to community work.
What does it mean to think peace? How can we live it – not merely as an ideal but as a daily practice? And what does it mean to stand up for it, to defend it even when it is not the easiest path? We tried to answer these questions in a concluding discussion with Dr Maja Ladić and Dr Eva Marn. We summed up the Colloquium’s key message: peace is not to be taken for granted – it must be constantly co-created, also through learning and the shared search for ways forward.
Education – not just adult education – helps us solve problems with knowledge rather than violence.
Unfortunately, peers who see conflict as an opportunity to assert an idea often have more influence than education and training for peace.
Peace-building as everyday practice
The Adult Education Colloquium made it clear that peace-building is not only a topic for high-level political debate but a process that begins with each individual – in schools, workplaces, communities and adult education programmes. Participants’ feedback was extremely positive; they emphasised the value of diverse perspectives, open dialogue and the exchange of good practice, encouraging them to reflect on their role in building a more peaceful society.
The event inspired and encouraged experts and practitioners in ALE to continue their work confidently – for it is learning itself that can pave the way to a more understanding, connected and peaceful world. Did you miss it? You can watch the video recording on the event website.
Jasmina Mirčeva, MSc (jasmina.mirceva@acs.si), SIAE