What we’re guided by.
Beyond programs: A platform where young Bosnians find their voice, sharpen their thinking, and shape tomorrow's dialogue.
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Beyond programs: A platform where young Bosnians find their voice, sharpen their thinking, and shape tomorrow's dialogue. 〰️
Bosnia and Herzegovina stands at a crossroads. Young voices are often missing from important conversations that shape the country's future. Sarajevo Debates exists to bridge this gap, preparing a generation of citizens who can engage critically with complex issues and express themselves confidently in public dialogue.
Our Mission
Sarajevo Debates exists to empower young voices in Bosnia and Herzegovina through critical thinking, media literacy, and real-world communication skills.
We create spaces where young people can analyze, express, and challenge ideas – and engage meaningfully with the world around them.
Our Vision
We envision a Bosnia where...
Young people analyze complex issues critically
Evidence-based thinking replaces polarized rhetoric
Media literacy is a foundation for civic life
Intergenerational dialogue shapes public discourse
Diverse voices lead the conversation
Core values
🧠 Critical Thinking
We question, analyze, and think deeply.
🪞Historical Understanding
We reflect on the past to engage the present.
🤝 Inclusive Dialogue
We listen and engage across differences.
🔥 Youth Empowerment
We give tools, not answers.
📚 Media Literacy
We decode, create, and critique media content.
🌉 Bridge-Building
We connect generations, sectors, and stories.
Our approach
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It all begins with critical thinking. We teach participants to question assumptions, evaluate evidence, and recognize logical fallacies. Through structured analytical exercises and guided discussions, young people learn to navigate complex information landscapes and form independent judgments.
Our workshops cover media analysis, historical context evaluation, and the principles of evidence-based reasoning. Rather than telling participants what to think, we provide them with frameworks for how to think effectively about the challenges facing Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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With analytical foundations in place, participants develop their unique voices through practical content creation. Whether producing written journalism, podcast episodes, or social media campaigns, our cohort learns to translate complex ideas into compelling communication.
Under expert guidance, each participant develops an original project addressing an issue they care about. This hands-on experience builds technical skills while emphasizing ethical storytelling, audience engagement, and strategic messaging.
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Ideas strengthen when tested through respectful dialogue. Our formal debate training teaches participants to construct persuasive arguments, anticipate counterpoints, and engage productively with diverse perspectives.
These skills culminate in structured public debates on pressing societal questions. By practicing the art of reasoned disagreement, participants learn that meaningful dialogue isn't about winning arguments—it's about collective understanding and finding common ground.
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No idea exists in isolation. Our program builds bridges between emerging voices and established figures through cross-generational dialogues, mentorship relationships, and networking opportunities with leaders across sectors.
These connections create pathways for young people to bring their ideas to broader audiences and develop professional relationships that extend beyond the program. By connecting with journalists, academics, policymakers, and activists, participants gain both visibility and credibility for their work.