The Europe Challenge

The Local Challenge 

The community faces a lack of structured conflict management, where cultural, generational, and social tensions often escalate into polarization and exclusion. Vulnerable groups, including migrants and minorities, are most affected, with limited access to dialogue and shared spaces. Rising social fragmentation and declining civic engagement, especially in areas with significant migration and diversity, make this challenge urgent. Introducing restorative practices and community-based mediation offers a path to inclusion, mutual understanding, and active citizenship, turning conflict into a catalyst for connection and wellbeing.

The Initiative

In partnership with Centro InConTra ETS, the library will combine intercultural education with restorative justice practices to make conflict resolution accessible and practical for the community. Each year, thematic weeks within Fileo will engage youth, schools, faith communities, and civil society in exploring interculture, discrimination, and inclusion. Activities include restorative justice circles, training with educators and associations, and a public conference launching a new restorative justice collection with donated books.

What’s Next?

The project strengthens the library as a hub for intercultural dialogue, restorative practice, and civic participation. It will equip residents with participatory methods to address conflict constructively, reducing polarization and building stronger community ties. Youth and the general public will gain tools for navigating conflict, while migrants, refugees, and minorities will find inclusive spaces that validate their identities. Supported by Centro InConTra’s experience and the Fileo network, the project will foster long-term reflection, inclusion, and the culture of encounter across Bergamo’s diverse communities.

Contact theeuropechallenge@culturalfoundation.eu if you have any questions or want to be connected with the team behind the project.