Breaking down polarization? Dialogue and collaboration is the answer

How do we address the growing polarization dividing communities? Last week, policymakers, academics, and social innovators gathered at Het Nutshuis in The Hague to tackle this critical question. The expert meeting "From polarization to connection" was organized by Mensen met een Missie and Utrecht University. Participants explored solutions to restore trust and bridge divides.

The message was clear: dialogue and collaboration are the antidotes to polarization. Participants shared insights and strategies, emphasizing that only through mutual engagement and constructive dialogue can the widening gap in society be bridged.

A society under pressure

Polarization is no longer an abstract concern. 60% of Dutch citizens are deeply worried about increasing divisions in society. Recent events in Amsterdam have shown how quickly polarizing narratives escalate. Issues like migration are used to stigmatize communities. As loud voices dominate the debate, society becomes even more divided.

“Polarization starts small but, when left unnoticed, can divide societies for years,” warned Bulama Bukarti, a Nigerian analyst specializing in social cohesion. Drawing from his experiences with the extremist group Boko Haram, Bukarti stressed how a lack of communication between communities creates a vacuum for mistrust to flourish. "Pay attention to minor changes and act in time. It’s the interaction between people that creates humanity,” he said.

Diverse voices, shared responsibility

The importance of inclusive decision-making was stressed by Fatimazhra Belhirch, a senator from the Dutch political party D66: "To foster real connection, policies must reflect what’s really happening in society. That requires including diverse voices in shaping solutions."

Imam Shamier Madhar called attention to the media’s role in exacerbating divides: "Recent events show how sensationalist reporting has widened gaps. Both the media and government share a responsibility to rebuild trust."

From ideas to action

In a series of interactive workshops such as ‘Non-violent communication’ and ‘Interfaith Experience’, participants shared strategies and were offered tools to reduce tensions, dismantle prejudices, and foster meaningful dialogue within communities.

Rick van der Woud, director of Mensen met een Missie, captured the essence of the day: "This expert meeting proved we are not alone in the fight against polarization. Sharing ideas across disciplines is essential to drive real change."

Polarization may seem overwhelming, but this meeting reaffirmed the power of connection. Together, through dialogue and collaboration, we can bridge divides and rebuild trust—one conversation at a time.