News

On July 17, 2025, the Bayreuth Peace Talks in cooperation with the Bavarian Scientific Alliance for Peace, Conflict, and Security Research (FoKS) welcomed around 40 guests to the Bayreuth City Library for a thought-provoking evening on political polarization and the power of dialogue.

Berlin-based journalist Hanna Israel shared insights from her time leading My Country Talks (2020–2024), a global initiative that connects people with opposing political views, “like Tinder, but for politics.” Through powerful stories and scientific evidence, she showed how one-on-one conversations can reduce polarization and foster empathy.

Israel also emphasized the role of constructive journalism, which focuses on solutions over sensationalism—especially in complex conflicts like Gaza or Ukraine.

A lively discussion followed, led by Prof. Dr. Jana Hönke from the research network Conflicts.Meanings.Transitions. Audience members brought diverse, sometimes critical, perspectives to the table.

Events like these strengthen civil discourse and highlight the importance of peace and conflict research in Bavaria.

Listen to the recording of the event here (in German). 

Hanna Israel presenting on My Country Talks

Hanna Israel & Prof. Jana Hönke during the Q&A with the audience

Hanna Israel & Prof. Jana Hönke during the Q&A with the audience