A study session, “Our Voices: Misinformation and Debate in a Pluralistic World,” is taking place between 5 and 10 May at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg. Organised under the Youth for Democracy programme and in co-operation with the International Falcon Movement – Socialist Education International (IFM-SEI), the event brings together 30 young participants from 17 countries across the globe.
This study session aims to explore the impact of misinformation and pluralism on young people; build young people’s capacity to critically assess different information points and sources, both online and offline and develop young people’s skills to engage in constructive, positive, and respectful debates while being informed about the different institutions and organisations addressing political, social, and civic issues.
Over the course of the five-day programme, participants will: Examine misinformation and its effects at local, national, and global levels; Learn how to evaluate sources, assess credibility, and limit the spread of misinformation; Develop skills in constructing arguments, responding to hostility, and participating in scenario-based debate sessions; Create a series of educational videos providing guidance on debating skills for young people.
By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to carry out activities on misinformation and debate within their national organisations. By involving young people from diverse backgrounds, this initiative fosters cross-organisational collaboration, ensuring a broader impact and wider dissemination of knowledge.
In today’s digital world, misinformation spreads rapidly, making it increasingly difficult to identify reliable sources. Young people need media literacy, critical thinking, and debate skills to engage in meaningful and constructive discussions.
As part of this initiative, participants are developing a video series on how to identify and critically evaluate misinformation, as well as on “how to argue” effectively. These videos will include activities, tips, step-by-step guidance, and examples of healthy, respectful, and effective debate. The series will be freely available on the IFM-SEI website as an open resource for young people, youth organisations, and educators.
More information about the study session is available on the dedicated webpage.
