World Press Freedom Day reminds us each year of the exceptionally important role that journalism plays in modern society. It is not merely about access to information, but a broader concept that includes responsibility to the public, transparency in the functioning of institutions, and the protection of fundamental democratic values. Free media are one of the key pillars of an open and just society, as they enable oversight of those in power and contribute to informed decision-making by citizens.

Journalists around the world carry out a demanding task every day: they investigate, verify facts, and give a voice to those who otherwise would not be heard. Their work often takes place in difficult and dangerous conditions. Despite progress in human rights, media freedom remains seriously under threat. According to various organizations, more than 50 journalists are killed each year, while many others face pressure, censorship, persecution, or even imprisonment. This clearly shows that the struggle for free and independent journalism is far from over.

Journalist in Gaza, Palestine. Photo credit: Khames Alrefi/Anadolu

Freedom of expression, access to verified information, and independent journalism are not to be taken for granted—they are the foundation of peace, justice, and the rule of law. Without them, society risks slipping into disinformation, manipulation, and deepening inequality. That is why it is essential for both individuals and communities to actively support free media and recognize their value.

As an organization, we believe that open communication and access to reliable information are key to fostering understanding among people and communities. At a time when societies are becoming increasingly divided, promoting dialogue and critical thinking is more important than ever. The media play a crucial role in this process, as they shape the public sphere and influence how we understand the world around us.

In this spirit, we continue our activities, including the Dialogue Talks events (2025–2026), where we address important topics such as polarization, social divisions, and the importance of constructive dialogue. Our goal is to create spaces for the exchange of ideas, listening to diverse perspectives, and finding common solutions.

Through the BODE and BODE+ projects (2021–2025), in collaboration with ADRA Slovenia, we have highlighted the importance of an inclusive society through various media campaigns, public discussions, and advocacy activities. We placed particular emphasis on integration, language learning, and creating an environment where every individual can feel accepted and heard.

With BODE+ project partners at a press conference in May 2025, during the handover of petition signatures and the initiative for school meals in front of the Ministry of Education.

An important part of our work also includes radio programs that we created in collaboration with Radio Študent, particularly within the show Enolončnica. Through this content, we promoted intercultural dialogue, connection, and an understanding of diversity, which enriches Slovenian society.

Truth and dialogue go hand in hand. Free media are not only a source of information, but also a space where ideas are formed, different perspectives are confronted, and bridges between people are built. They are the foundation of a more peaceful, just, and connected world—a world in which every voice has value.

In the month of April, we organized and participated in numerous events. You can read about them in our new monthly newsletter. In it, we share everything that happened over the past month.

If you missed any of our recent posts, the MKD Newsletter will definitely come in handy!

We were active with our Conversation club in Slovene in April as well

In April, our three club groups met only three times due to the scheduled break, and after the May Day holidays we still have four active conversation sessions ahead.

In the last week before the holidays, we focused on the topic: At the administrative unit, the post office, and the bank.

The Tuesday afternoon group while sorting vocabulary

Mentor Miša Bitenc prepared essential vocabulary for the groups that can be useful to foreign speakers in speaking situations in the mentioned public institutions. She then divided the course participants into pairs, and they had to prepare for a role-play. At the end, a short debate also took place between the opposing teams about the mandatory use of Slovenian at administrative units.

World Book Day reminds us each year of the extraordinary value of the written word. Books are not only a source of information, but also a bridge between cultures, ideas, and generations. At Društvo Medkulturni Dialog, we believe that reading creates space for understanding, respect, and connection among people from diverse backgrounds.

The history of the book goes back thousands of years—from handwritten manuscripts on papyrus and parchment to the revolutionary invention of the printing press in the 15th century, developed by Johannes Gutenberg. Printing enabled the mass dissemination of knowledge and ideas, significantly influencing the development of society, education, and science. Today, we live in the age of digital books, yet the importance of reading remains the same—it fosters critical thinking, empathy, and personal growth.

Photo resource: Greenville Journal

Despite progress, literacy is still not a given. According to international organizations, hundreds of millions of people around the world are still unable to read or write. Illiteracy limits access to education, employment, and active participation in society. This is why promoting reading and access to books is essential for a more just and inclusive world.

In many cultures, reading holds a special significance. In Islam, knowledge is one of the fundamental values. The first revealed word to the Prophet Muhammad was “Read!” (Iqra), emphasizing the importance of learning, exploration, and understanding the world. This message comes from the first revealed chapter of the Qur’an, Al-‘Alaq (“The Clot”), which begins with the words: “Read in the name of your Lord who created.” This moment of revelation represents not only the beginning of the Islamic message, but also a powerful symbol of the importance of knowledge, literacy, and understanding. The continuation of the chapter highlights that God taught humanity by the pen—an instrument of writing—further emphasizing the value of the written word and the transmission of knowledge across generations.

On World Book Day, we invite you to pick up a book—whether it’s a novel, a poetry collection, or a work of non-fiction. Every page you read is a step toward broader horizons and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

Let’s read. Let’s learn. Let’s connect.

On April 1st, we organized the third intercultural cooking workshop of the year at the premises of the Association for Intercultural Dialogue. This time, five participants from different countries—China, Russia, Egypt, Canada, and Turkey—gathered in our kitchen.

Under the guidance of our Russian volunteer Natalja, we prepared a traditional Russian dessert, Medovik (a honey cake with nuts). The participants gladly took part in the preparation, but even more meaningful was the time we spent together.

In a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, we then gathered around the table, where conversations, stories, and experiences from different cultures intertwined. Turkish tea and the Russian dessert created a truly special combination.

At the next workshop, led by our Egyptian volunteer, we will be preparing a dessert from Egyptian cuisine.

We organize workshops at least once a month (or twice if there is enough interest), depending on participants’ demand.

If you live in Slovenia, are interested in different cultures and cuisine, and enjoy social gatherings, we warmly invite you to join us. Write to us at: info@mkdia.org

Participation is based on a recommended donation, which helps cover the cost of ingredients. The number of places is limited, so prior registration is required.

As part of our regular creative gatherings, we organized another craft workshop in April, which takes place every two weeks at the premises of the Association for Intercultural Dialogue, in cooperation with the Anatolia Women’s Cultural Association.

This time, together with participants from Slovenia and Turkey, we explored the traditional Turkish art of ebru – painting on water. With great creativity, participants formed unique patterns, which were then transferred onto paper and taken home with joy as their own artistic creations.

Such workshops connect different cultures, create added value for the community, and at the same time encourage learning the Slovene language through relaxed communication. Participants have the opportunity to discover new cultural expressions while strengthening their connection with the local environment and language.

The workshops take place every other Wednesday between 17:00 and 19:00.
The next session will be on 29 April. The number of places is limited.

Don’t forget to register at: info@mkdia.org

Interview with Briza Bohne from the USA

What does it mean to raise teenagers in a digital world, and how can parents create a healthier balance between screens and real life?

In our 51st episode of the show Enolončnica, we once again hosted Briza Bohne, an educator and digital wellbeing advocate. Drawing on her experience working with young people and living in different cultural environments, she shared an important message: it is not just about screen time, but about the life around the screen.

We talked about why young people need more than limits—they need relationships, responsibility, and real-world experiences; how development is shaped through effort, activity, and even boredom; and why the example set by adults often matters more than their words. She especially emphasized that parents do not need to be perfect—being present and making an effort can already have a meaningful impact on the wellbeing of the whole family.

We also explored a simple but powerful shift in thinking: instead of asking “How do we reduce screen time?” we can ask “What do we want to strengthen in daily life?”

The episode also offers practical tools and approaches to digital wellbeing, based on balance, awareness, and gradual changes in everyday routines.

Enolončnica – Radio Študent 89.3 MHz
Every third Saturday at 18:00.

Join us again for the next episode!

If you missed the live broadcast, you can find the episode in the Radio Študent archive or click HERE.

On the anniversary of Pope Francis’ death, we remember his remarkable legacy, which goes beyond the boundaries of the Church and speaks to all of humanity. He was one of those leaders who believed that real change begins with sincere conversation. His work was marked by an openness to dialogue, which he understood as a key path to peace, understanding, and living together in diversity.

Pope Francis strongly emphasized the importance of dialogue—especially interfaith dialogue. He believed that differences between people should not divide us, but can instead enrich us if we simply give one another the chance to get to know each other. This was not just words. Through his visits to different countries and meetings with religious leaders, he showed that it is possible to build bridges even where it may seem there are none.

In the image, Pope Francis is in Istanbul with the Grand Mufti, as well as meeting with the Chief Rabbi of Cyprus. Photo sources: The Guardian and Vatican News.

In his work Fratelli tutti, he spoke about fraternity and the idea that we are all part of the same community, regardless of our faith, culture, or background. His message was simple but powerful: the world becomes better when we start listening to one another and make an effort to understand each other.

As an association, we also believe that interfaith dialogue is needed today more than ever—both in Slovenia and in the world. If we want to live in a connected and open society, we must create space for conversation, cooperation, and mutual respect. Small steps in this direction can lead to big changes.

Perhaps this is one of the most important things Pope Francis left us—a reminder that dialogue is not weakness, but strength. And that through it, we can build a community where everyone feels accepted.

Društvo Medkulturni Dialog, in collaboration with ADRA Slovenia, is pleased to announce the launch of the project Impact4Values – Support to the Migration, Integration and Refugee Family Reunification Programme, led by ADRA Slovenia.

Project background

People with a migrant background continue to face systemic barriers in accessing rights, public services, and education, especially in the first months after arrival or family reunification. They often experience unequal treatment, discrimination, and undignified conditions. At the same time, there is a lack of sustainable and innovative programmes that would include them as equal co-creators of solutions and contribute to a greater understanding of EU values among the wider public.

Key programme upgrades

The project brings several important improvements:

Digitalisation and innovative tools
The upgrade of advocacy tools includes the redesign of online campaigns, virtual exhibitions, the use of QR codes, and multimedia content (podcasts, videos, articles). Special emphasis is placed on co-creating content together with people with a migrant background.

Enhanced counselling and workshops
The programme introduces innovative approaches (e.g. role-playing, storytelling) and a system of gift vouchers, enabling dignified and tailored support in crisis situations.

Strengthening cooperation between organisations
A cross-sector incubator of five non-governmental organisations will be established to facilitate knowledge exchange, joint planning, and more effective advocacy.

Greater inclusion of women and youth
Women and young people will be actively involved as content creators, workshop facilitators, and initiators of community activities.

Expected results

The project will contribute to:

  • improved support for approximately 200 people with a migrant background,
  • strengthened cooperation among non-governmental organisations,
  • the implementation of 8 awareness-raising campaigns reaching up to 200,000 people,
  • greater inclusion of women and young people in social life.

Project objective

The project lays the foundations for a long-term inclusive society in which people with a migrant background are equal co-creators of the community.

“Building Bridges at the Shared Table” on the Socialna akademija portal presents a joint iftar that we co-created with Socialna akademija as a space for meeting, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

The event brought together Christians and Muslims, offering an opportunity to exchange experiences, deepen spiritually, and discover shared values such as gratitude, discipline, and solidarity.

Through the reflections of participant Azra Altintas, the significance of fasting was especially highlighted as a path to personal growth and as a bridge between different religious traditions.

The shared table and open conversations once again demonstrated how collaboration, hospitality, and sincere dialogue can strengthen connections and build bridges among people from diverse backgrounds.

You can read the full article at THIS LINK.

Photo credit: Socialna akademija