In today’s world, deep divisions in society make it hard for people to talk and find common ground. The NECE Lab 2026 in Warsaw gives civic educators, activists, and others a chance to learn how to handle these splits through strong dialogue. Set for July 12-14, 2026, this event focuses on “Working with Polarised Groups in Civic Education” and provides real tools to build better conversations.
Why Civic Dialogue Matters Now
Europe faces growing splits in views on politics, culture, and social issues. These divides affect public talks and challenge those in civic education. Simple talks are not enough; they need planning, ways to include everyone, new formats, and steps to create real change.
The NECE Lab 2026 teaches how to set up “dialogue infrastructure.” This means the full setup to run, grow, and keep civic projects going strong. It helps people move past basic skills to make lasting impacts in their communities.
Key Skills and Experiences You Will Gain
The lab mixes talks from experts, hands-on workshops, and real dialogue practice. It draws from the New Community Foundation’s work in Poland, where they ran over 120 dialogue sessions and 100 workshops. You get proven methods that work in the real world.
Here are the main skills covered:
- Plan and run civic dialogue projects from start to finish.
- Reach people with different views, even those hard to bring in.
- Frame tough topics in ways that spark good talks.
- Handle both online and face-to-face formats.
- Share results to create wider social change.
A key part is trying both digital and in-person methods. This prepares you for any setting, from local groups to big online crowds.
Build Your Own Dialogue Project
The lab goes beyond classes. You will work on your own project idea for a dialogue event. Experts and other participants give feedback to make it ready to launch.
After the lab, picked attendees must hold a follow-up dialogue in 3-6 months. This spreads what you learn to more people and builds a network of civic workers across Europe.
Travel and Cost Support
The event wants people from all over Europe to join. Selected participants can get up to 500 EUR back for travel to and from Warsaw. You can apply even if you pay your own way.
This support makes the NECE Lab 2026 open to more changemakers who might not afford the trip.
Who Runs the Event
The New Community Foundation leads the lab, with help from THE CIVICS Innovation Hub. Funding comes from the German Federal Agency for Civic Education and the European Union. These backers show the program’s strong standing in Europe’s civic world.
How to Apply
Applications close on April 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM CEST. Apply soon to show your drive to start dialogue in your area.
People in Poland should contact the New Community Foundation directly. For details and to submit, visit the official application page.
The NECE Lab 2026 stands out as a key chance to fight polarization with action. It links learning, practice, and networks to help build better public talks across Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NECE Lab 2026?
The NECE Lab 2026 is a three-day event in Warsaw from July 12-14, 2026, that teaches civic educators and activists how to handle polarized groups through strong dialogue and practical tools.
What skills will participants gain?
You will learn to plan civic dialogue projects, reach diverse views, frame tough topics, handle online and in-person formats, and share results for social change.
How can I apply for the NECE Lab 2026?
Applications close on April 26, 2026, at 11:59 PM CEST; visit the official page to submit, and people in Poland should contact the New Community Foundation directly.
Is there support for travel costs?
Selected participants can get up to 500 EUR reimbursed for travel to and from Warsaw, and you can apply even if you pay your own way.
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