Understanding Polarisation and Depolarisation – Challenges for Politics, the Media and Society

Affective polarisation – that is, the emotional intensity of political conflicts – is increasingly shaping public debates and posing challenges for democracies. In debates that are already controversial – such as those on migration or climate policy – feelings of belonging to like-minded groups come to the fore, as do mistrust, rejection or hostility towards those with differing views.

Polarisation can invigorate democratic debates, but when pronounced, it can also reinforce ‘us-versus-them’ thinking, undermine the willingness to engage in dialogue and foster intolerance. Drawing on new MIDEM data, the conference provides a well-founded analysis of social polarisation dynamics in Germany and identifies viable strategies for constructively managing social conflicts.

The event is aimed at stakeholders from academia, political education, the media, public administration and civil society. A reception following the event will provide an opportunity for in-depth discussion and networking.

The event is taking place with the support of the Mercator Foundation.

The event will be held in German.