Words matter – this was confirmed by the students of the Junior Diplomatic Academy

Participants of the Junior Diplomatic Academy joined the public discussion “Words Matter,” held at the Ukrainian-Danish Youth House and посвящена topics of tolerance, countering xenophobia, and strengthening Ukraine’s democratic resilience on its path toward the European Union. The event brought together representatives of public institutions, international organizations, civil society, and youth to discuss how education and a culture of dialogue shape the country’s future.

For the students, the discussion highlighted that European integration is not only about legislation and international agreements, but also about everyday human interaction, respect for diversity, and responsibility for the words we use. A central focus of the conversation was how to build a society where discrimination and hate speech have no place.

A major focus of the event was the international dimension of these issues. The participation of experts from the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and the Council of Europe underscored that inclusion and a culture of dialogue are closely connected to national security and democratic resilience. In today’s world, a society’s ability to listen, cooperate, and engage with diversity is just as important as political or economic decisions.

Special attention was given to the second discussion panel, where experts moved beyond identifying challenges and focused on practical solutions. The conversation highlighted the role of youth councils, educational initiatives, public institutions, and civil society organizations in creating a more open and inclusive environment for young people.

One key message resonated throughout the discussion: democratic culture begins not with large political decisions, but with everyday communication—the ability to ask questions, debate respectfully, value different perspectives, and use language responsibly. These are precisely the skills that shape a new generation of young leaders and diplomats.

By the conclusion of the event, it became clear that discussions like these give young people more than knowledge—they help them understand their own role in the transformation Ukraine is experiencing. Ukraine’s European path is not only about foreign policy; it is also about the everyday work of building a culture of mutual respect within society.

Rita Kosyak, Head of the Project Office at the Kyiv Palace of Children and Youth, noted:

“This discussion once again reminded us that words truly matter. Through them, trust is built, dialogue begins, and democratic society takes shape. For the participants of the Junior Diplomatic Academy, this was more than a conversation about international standards or European values—it was a chance to see how respect, empathy, and responsibility for one’s own views function in real life. We are grateful for the opportunity to help young people understand that Ukraine’s future development begins with conversations like these, where people learn not only to speak, but also to listen to one another”.