by Jeff Schoep,
Founding Director of Beyond Barriers and Simon Wiesenthal Center Consultant
Dialogue for Peace Building: The Power of Dialogue
The Power of Dialogue for Peace Building
In November 2022, an extraordinary series of events unfolded in Oslo, Norway, highlighting the power of dialogue in fostering peace and understanding. Renowned speakers, including Jeff Schoep, Deeyah Khan, and Arno Michaelis, came together to address pressing issues surrounding extremism, dialogue, and peace-building. Their talks and interactions left a lasting impact on the audience, sparking conversations and inspiring hope for a more peaceful world.
Jeff Schoep’s Impactful Speech at Kuben’s High School
On Friday, November 18, 2022, Jeff Schoep, an influential figure in peace activism, delivered a captivating speech at Kuben’s High School in Oslo, Norway. In front of an eager crowd of approximately 150 students, he shared his profound words of wisdom. Schoep’s compelling address, which notably centered around the importance of dialogue in addressing extremism and promoting harmony within diverse communities, held their unwavering attention.
Throughout the presentation, the students remained fully engaged, punctuating their speech with thought-provoking questions and expressions of genuine interest in the subject matter. Interestingly, some students were so captivated by the discussion that they willingly skipped their scheduled classes to attend the event. Finally, Schoep’s powerful message resonated deeply with the young audience, leaving many in tears and instilling a sense of compassion and empathy.
The Nobel Peace Center’s Screening of “White Right: Meeting the Enemy”
The following day, on Saturday, November 19, 2022, the Nobel Peace Center hosted a momentous event at the renowned Colosseum Cinema in Oslo, Norway. The event included a screening of Deeyah Khan’s Emmy Award-winning documentary film, “White Right: Meeting the Enemy.” The film delves into the world of white supremacists and explores the potential for transformation through dialogue.
After the screening, a panel discussion ensued, featuring Deeyah Khan, Arno Michaelis, and Jeff Schoep. They were joined by distinguished psychiatrist Finn Skarderud and Chro Borhan, an expert on dialogue from the Nobel Peace Center. The discussions, expertly moderated by Henrik Syse, focused on the transformative power of dialogue and its role in countering extremism.
The Colosseum Cinema, filled to capacity with nearly 1,000 attendees, buzzed with energy and enthusiasm. The event served as a testament to the hunger for dialogue and the collective desire for peace in a world often plagued by division and conflict.
Recognizing the Importance of Peace-Building Initiatives
Firstly, in his personal message, Jeff Schoep expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the Nobel Peace Center. This venue, a sacred space that honors humanity’s most significant peace-building champions, provided an invaluable platform to advocate for dialogue as a means to bridge divides and foster understanding.
Additionally, Schoep acknowledged the remarkable efforts of the Nobel Peace Center’s team, led by Director Kjersti Flogstad. Moreover, along with dedicated individuals like Kim and Ingvill, who worked tirelessly to organize and execute these phenomenal events. Their commitment to humanity’s well-being was truly commendable. In conclusion, their dedication left a lasting impression on all those involved.
Exploring Pathways to Counter Extremism
During their visit to Oslo, Deeyah Khan, Arno Michaelis, and Jeff Schoep also had a pivotal meeting with the Norwegian Government Commission on Countering Extremism. This important discussion centered around the role of relational dialogue in deradicalization and disengagement from all forms of extremism. The collective expertise and insights shared during this meeting have the potential to shape effective strategies for combating extremism globally.
Discovering The Human Aspect: A Remarkable Organization
During the course of their trip, Jeff Schoep had the privilege of encountering an extraordinary group called The Human Aspect. Subsequently, Schoep spent over three hours filming with them, consequently becoming an ardent admirer of their crucial work. In order to learn more about this remarkable organization and its mission, it is suggested to visit its website at https://thehumanaspect.com. Ultimately, The Human Aspect’s impactful initiatives are bound to resonate with individuals who are passionate about making a positive difference in the world.
Building Connections and Strengthening Bonds
Indeed, the trip to Oslo proved to be an extraordinary opportunity for Jeff Schoep to forge meaningful connections with fellow peace advocates. Notably, Tore Bjorgo, one of the pioneers behind the EXIT program for extremists, engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Jeff. Consequently, this exchange culminated in an episode for Bjorgo’s podcast and research project, thereby providing a platform to disseminate valuable insights on combating extremism and promoting dialogue.
In addition, Jeff Schoep also had the distinct pleasure of meeting Deeyah’s brother for the first time, a man equally dedicated to creating positive change in the world. Interestingly, the encounter felt like reconnecting with a long-lost friend, effectively strengthening the bond between individuals committed to peace and understanding.
Conclusion: A Journey of Productivity, Empowerment, and Friendship
Conclusively, Jeff Schoep’s visit to Oslo, Norway, proved to be a highly productive journey filled with inspiring encounters and transformative dialogues. Furthermore, the events at Kuben’s High School and the Nobel Peace Center demonstrated the profound impact of dialogue on fostering peace and understanding.
In this vein, as humanity navigates polarized times, the work and mission of organizations like the Nobel Peace Center and remarkable individuals such as Jeff Schoep, Deeyah Khan, and Arno Michaelis become increasingly vital. Above all, by embracing the power of dialogue and striving for empathy and compassion, we can pave the way toward a more harmonious and inclusive world.
