Borderland Dialogues
The dialogue circles initiative is taking place in spring 2026 across Estonia for the first time. It is part of a broader cooperation project ‘Borderland Dialogues‘ aimed at building a culture of discussion in the region. People in Finland, Latvia, Norway, Lithuania and Poland are exploring through dialogue ways to support the resilience of individuals and communities and maintain social cohesion in uncertain times.
The dialogue circles focus on people’s personal experiences and feelings. We explore questions such as: How am I coping? What helps me feel safe? What supports me and my community?
The goal is not to reach common solutions or decisions, but to listen, understand, and make visible people’s experiences in the present moment.
As part of this project, the Estonian Dialogue Academy is providing dialogue circles in the English language. We will organise and facilitate these dialogues together with other partners in Estonia.
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Why dialogue?
Geopolitical tensions are affecting people’s daily lives and sense of security across Estonia. Many are experiencing anxiety and uncertainty and are looking for answers to questions about how to cope in difficult times and where to find support.
Technical solutions and crisis preparedness alone are not enough for society to function. Equally important are people’s mental well-being, social and emotional security, and the ability to listen to and understand one another.
Dialogue circles create a space where people can talk to each other in a respectful manner, without judgement, and valuing each person’s unique experiences. Through mindful listening and talking we can all contribute to the culture of discussion that Estonian society needs in the long term.
What will happen with the results?
The general patterns and observations from the discussions in the dialogue circles will be compiled by researchers at the University of Tartu.
The knowledge gathered will help communities, organisations, and decision-makers to better understand people’s experiences and make more informed and effective choices.
A public summary will be available in autumn 2026 to all interested parties on the Estonian Cooperation Assembly’s website.
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
The implementation of the dialogue circles is building on the experience of nationwide dialogues organised in Finland.
The dialogue circles will take place on 24 March and 29 April, or on a suitable day within this period.
In Estonia, this initiative is being implemented in by the Estonian Cooperation Assembly in collaboration with the University of Tartu and the Estonian Government Office. The Estonian Dialogue Academy is partner for the English language dialogues.
The project is funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Estonia.
