From Hate to Understanding
The project From Hate to Understanding took place in Sfântu Gheorghe, Romania, and brought together 40 youth workers from 10 European countries. The Erasmus+ training course focused on understanding hate speech, prejudice, discrimination and the mechanisms that lead to the spread of hate. Through Council of Europe methods, participants explored media literacy, emotions, needs-based communication, stereotypes, privilege, fake news and social media. Using group activities, discussions, role-plays and reflection, they gained practical tools for working with young people and preventing conflict in their local communities.
Hate does not appear out of nowhere. It often starts with prejudice, stereotypes, fear, manipulation or lack of understanding. This was the main focus of the Erasmus+ training course From Hate to Understanding, which took place from 16 to 22 April 2026 in Sfântu Gheorghe, Romania.
The project brought together 40 youth workers from 10 European countries and focused on hate speech, discrimination, prejudice and the social structures that influence how hate develops and escalates. The programme was based on Council of Europe methods and included group activities, cooperative games, emotional awareness, needs-based communication, media analysis, discussions on stereotypes and privilege, role-plays, reflection circles, creative tasks and outdoor activities.
One of the strongest parts of the project was the safe and respectful atmosphere, which made it possible to explore sensitive topics openly and constructively. Participants gained practical tools for youth work, conflict prevention, media literacy and strengthening critical thinking.
Our participant Violetta left the project with new methods, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of hate, greater sensitivity towards different social groups and inspiration she can use in practice.
Thank you to the hosting organisation Youth Media Association for a professionally prepared and meaningful project.