In today’s world, young people are growing up in a landscape filled with information, challenges, and constant change. Social media creates echo chambers, fake news spreads faster than facts, and public discussions often turn into polarized shouting matches. Against this backdrop, the art of debate has never been more important.

That is why the Debating for Diversity project believes debate is not just an extracurricular activity—it is a skill for life, and a tool for democracy.

Beyond Winning Arguments

For many, “debate” sounds like a competition where the goal is to win. But within our project, debate is something deeper:

  • A way to think critically, by questioning assumptions and checking facts.

  • A way to communicate clearly, learning to speak with confidence and structure.

  • A way to listen respectfully, even to views you strongly disagree with.

These are not just debating skills—they are life skills.

Facing the Challenges of 2025

Why do these skills matter so much today? Because the challenges facing young people in 2025 are complex:

  • Climate change, where solutions require international cooperation.

  • Minority rights and inclusion, where societies must learn to balance unity with diversity.

  • The digital world, where misinformation can threaten democracy itself.

Debate provides a safe space to explore these questions. It allows students to test ideas, to disagree constructively, and to imagine better solutions—long before they step into the voting booth or take on leadership roles.

From Fear to Confidence

For many of our students, the first debate is an intimidating experience. Standing in front of peers, presenting arguments, responding to challenges—it feels overwhelming. But something magical happens: once the first words are spoken, fear turns into focus.

As one Romanian student shared: “At first I was nervous. Then I realized debate isn’t about being perfect—it’s about daring to speak and learning from others.”

That moment—when a shy student discovers the courage to raise their voice—is the true victory of debate.

Building a Culture of Dialogue

In Romania, Slovenia, and Serbia, debate is still in its early stages as an educational practice. But thanks to international cooperation, this culture of dialogue is growing. Our Slovenian partners learn from Italian schools, where debate is already institutionalized. Our Serbian partners connect debate with democratic participation. Our Romanian team integrates debates in three languages, reflecting the diversity of their community.

Together, these efforts are shaping a generation that is not afraid to speak up, listen, and build bridges across differences.

Debate as a Tool for Democracy

At its core, debate teaches us that disagreement is not a threat—it is an opportunity. In an era when societies are often divided, young people are showing us another way: respectful dialogue, critical thinking, and the courage to imagine solutions.

That is why debate matters in 2025. Not because it creates future champions, but because it creates future citizens.