How do we create an open society for all?

How does trust, communication and social bounding shape our democracy?

Are we aware about the resources available in our society? Who and how we can access them? How do members of society create an inclusive society open to all, where no one is left behind – a society based on equity and wellbeing? What makes us to trust authorities, what elements are available to protect our rights, the democratic process, overall individual and community wellbeing and health, and a community resilience?

These are a few questions inviting you to a seminar and an open conversation between the citizens/residents and the community of researchers on trust, time of crisis, communication, health and wellbeing in an inclusive society, political leadership, contribution of minority groups and civic participation role. We invite you to reflection on how can be build a society were access to resources and participation of all is guided by equity?

The library is a unique public space that creates a specific environment for open communication and free expression.. The library environment offers the opportunity  to step out of our predefined realities, connect with others and share information and knowledge across social groups in a trusted environment.

The seminar proposes a format where academics from the University of Iceland, University of Bifröst and specialist from the Directorate of Health and the City of Reykjavik  introduce their findings connected to the results of the PaCE Local Democracy Lab in Iceland carried out online on the 30th of January 2021. The main topics of discussion are:

• Diversity, communication and multuculturalism during times of social change. Cross disciplinary approach on communication, resilience, access to resources in a society for all.
• Policy innovation and and contribution to policy design in a liberal democracy.
• Populism, political leadership and their role in transformation of society.

The presentations and discussions will be streamed live. People interested in the topics can registered and participate either in-person at the library in Gerðuberg or follow the presentation online. The agenda of and an abstract of presentation will be available on the website of the library.The presentations, discussion and PPT will be available on the website of the Gerðubergi Library and on the website of the City of Reykjavík.

Everyone is welcome to participate, free of charge based on a preliminary registration. The registration form is available below.

Event on Facebook.

Here you find seminar´s schedule.

The seminar is a part of the dissemination and exploitation of the Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme entitled “PaCE – Populism and Civic Engagement” financed by the European Union. The results of the PaCE project are a contribution of nine organizations across Europe. Further information are available on the PaCE Facebook, Twitter.

Here are the main findings of the local democracy lab in Iceland.

Follow up
On Wednesday, the 27th of October 2021 different stakeholders, policy actors, representative of organizations of minorities, political actors are invited to a workshop to address the outcomes of the PaCE Local Democracy Lab in Iceland, considering the findings presented by academics and experts on the 26th of October 2021. to
 

Further information on the PaCE project, seminar and workshop:
Dr. Roxana Elena Cziker, research project manager of PaCE project on behalf of the City of Reykjavík, Iceland: roxana.elena.cziker@reykjavík.is 

The library is open to new ideas on developing the library as a democratic venue and a social space. If you would like to bring your own to the library, send us a line:
Dögg Sigmarsdóttir
Project manager | Civic Participation
dogg.sigmarsdottir@reykjavik.is