Our projects

Once fully developed, the program will consist of 100 online dialogues over two years, covering all major topics of public dissent, involving 1200 citizens across the country. The project aims to bring together people who no longer meet due to filter bubbles – but who constitute the very core of a democratic society.

The Polish Dialogue Program targets the so-called silent majority – conservatives, liberals and moderates who are drowned out by radicalized public discourse. Through partnerships with conservative and liberal groups and institutions we will reach people of various ideological backgrounds, age groups and socio-economic status who are tired of polarization, interested in civic conversations, yet often hostage to polarizing perspectives and divisive language themselves.

Dialogues on social and political issues

Launched in January 2023, the project will deliver 10 online de-polarization dialogues on highly polarizing topics, related to identity, solidarity, democracy and security. Dissenting citizens from across Poland, both conservatives and liberals, will be invited to talk to each other, with the aim of regaining a sense of civic community, despite their deeply-rooted differences in beliefs and opinions. The project, funded by the National Endowment for Democracy, constitutes the initial cycle of the Polish Dialogue program, a two-year effort to confront polarization and start social bridging in Poland. Designed and developed by the New Community Foundation, the nationwide program is open to new donors and grant-makers.

Project Leader: Joanna Matera

Dialogues on Polish-Ukrainian relations

Initiated after the Russian aggression on Ukraine in February 2022, the project aims to reduce Polish resentment toward Ukrainian refugees and prepare ground for their long-term integration into Polish society. The project consists of 8 de-polarization dialogues on contentious topics, resulting from Ukrainian immigration to Poland – ex. competition for jobs, and housing, disagreements over history. Apart from the dialogues we have also delivered 8 trainings in good conversation, where citizens were offered practical skills on how to talk with people holding divergent views. The project, carried by the Robert Bosch Stiftung, will possibly see a continuation in the form of Polish-Ukrainian dialogues.

Project Leader: Paulina Jeziorek

Dialogues on climate and environment

Started in January 2023, the project will consist of 8 online and 2 live de-polarization dialogues on topics related to climate change. Aside from direct benefit for participants, the dialogues will also produce an indirect output – we will gauge how citizens position themselves on particular environmental issues, what drives them apart and what brings them together as they interact during the dialogue. This actionable knowledge, including position mapping and descriptives of the mechanics of de/polarization, will be offered to local stakeholders who deal with climate and environment issues, so they can better understand the needs of their constituents and adjust their communication. Additionally, 10 online trainings in good conversation will be delivered. This is the second grant awarded to the NCF by the European Climate Foundation.

Project Leader: Katarzyna Binda