Debating for Inclusion and Active Citizenship

  • Programme: European Solidarity Corps Project

  • Organiser: NovaMent

  • Duration: 12 Months

  • Project Period: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026

About the Project

 

Debating for Inclusion and Active Citizenship is a youth-led solidarity project by NovaMent in Denmark. The project is designed to help young people build confidence, strengthen critical thinking, and participate more actively in democratic life.

We believe young people need more safe, inclusive, and youth-friendly spaces outside formal education where they can express their views, discuss important issues, and learn from one another through dialogue.

What we Do

Over 12 months, the project will organise monthly debate sessions using inclusive and interactive formats, including:

  • Oxford-style debates

  • Agree / Disagree Corners

  • Fishbowl discussions

  • Role-play debates

These activities will give young people aged 15–25 the opportunity to improve their communication skills, practice respectful dialogue, and engage with real social issues.

Topics we Explore

Participants will discuss themes that matter to young people and society, such as:

  • Inclusion

  • Education

  • Democracy

  • Mental health

  • Sustainability

  • Active citizenship

Why this Project Matters?

Many young people lack structured, youth-friendly spaces outside formal education where they can express themselves, discuss social issues, and practice democratic participation. This project responds to that need by creating accessible debate activities that strengthen confidence, communication, and inclusion.

Through workshops, regular debate sessions, community debate evenings, and a final conference, the project encourages youth to become active contributors to their communities.

What we aim to achieve?

  • Empower young people to speak with confidence and clarity

  • Promote inclusive dialogue across different backgrounds and experiences

  • Develop critical thinking, teamwork, and respectful communication

  • Encourage active citizenship and democratic participation
  • Create sustainable tools and methods for future youth debate activities

Target Group

Who is it for?

The project is designed for young people aged 15–25 in Denmark, including local youth and young people with migrant or disadvantaged backgrounds. Participation is free, and activities are built to be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive.

Free and accessible participation
Inclusive facilitation methods

Safe spaces for dialogue

Community engagement with schools, libraries, and NGOs

Debating Formats

Learning through different styles

Participants explore multiple formats to build confidence, flexibility, and empathy while learning how to present ideas, listen actively, and engage respectfully.

Oxford-style Debate

A structured format where two sides argue for or against a motion, helping participants practice reasoning and persuasive speaking.

Fishbowl Discussion

A reflective format where a small group discusses in the center while others observe, then rotate in to contribute.

Agree / Disagree

An interactive method where participants physically position themselves based on their views and explain their reasoning.

Role-play Debate

Participants debate from assigned perspectives, building empathy, creativity, and understanding of different viewpoints.

Timeline

Project journey across 2026

January – February 2026

 

Planning and Preparation

 

 

Project planning, role distribution, debate formats, and yearly calendar preparation. Preparation of booklets, posters, social media campaign, survey design, and a test debate session.

March 2026

 

 

Introduction Workshop

First public workshop introducing debating methods and launching the regular sessions.

April–October 2026

 

 

Regular Debate Sessions

Monthly debate sessions using Oxford-style, Fishbowl, Agree/Disagree, and Role-play formats, plus community debate evenings.

November 2026

Evaluation & Toolkit

Final survey, project results review, and preparation of the Mini Debate Toolkit.

December 2026

Final Debate Conference

Closing event, debate tournament, guest speakers, and toolkit launch.