On the first day of the Opinion Festival, 7 August from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Integration Foundation will host a panel discussion at the Cultural Diversity Area titled “A Sense of Belonging or Extremism? How Can We Prevent Radicalisation?”
In recent years, radicalisation, social polarisation and the crisis of trust have become increasingly discussed topics across Europe and in Estonia. But how does radicalisation actually develop? Does it begin with ideology, or rather with a lack of belonging? During the discussion, we will explore how to recognise risk factors before a person becomes disconnected from society. What role do schools, communities, culture, youth work and the state play in this process? Could a stronger sense of belonging and greater social cohesion be the best safeguard against extremist ideas?
The panel discussion will focus on how radicalisation develops, what its early warning signs are, and what role a sense of belonging, communities, education, youth work and social cohesion play in preventing it. The aim is to bring together different perspectives — prevention, security, integration and community work and to examine radicalisation as a broader societal issue rather than solely a matter of security.
Participants will also discuss how to strengthen social cohesion and feelings of belonging, and what collective actions can help reduce the influence of extremist ideologies and prevent radicalisation.
Panel Participants:
- Dmitri Moskovtsev – Head of the Integration Foundation
- Heidi Maiberg – Adviser at the Ministry of the Interior
- Oksana Belova-Dalton – Research Fellow at the Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies, University of Tartu
- Ringo Ringvee – Researcher at the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences
- Sting Marek Frank Valgus – Representative of the Radicalisation Prevention Group of the North Prefecture
The discussion will be moderated by Kristjan Pihl, a renowned journalist and author of the television programme Pealtnägija. His extensive experience in covering complex social issues will help ensure a meaningful, insightful and engaging conversation.
The discussion will take place in the Cultural Diversity area (Kultuuririkkuse ala), whose programme also includes other conversations on identity and cultural diversity. You can find the full programme here: https://arvamusfestival.ee/kava2026/#/
The Opinion Festival, known in Estonian as Arvamusfestival, is a two-day public event held in Paide. It brings together experts, decision-makers, community members and visitors to discuss important issues in Estonian society. The programme includes conversations on many different topics, as well as cultural activities and opportunities to meet new people.
Come and hear different perspectives on what helps people feel accepted, valued and at home in Estonia.
The event is free of charge.
See more: https://arvamusfestival.ee/