The National University of Ostroh Academy successfully hosted the international conference “Civil Society in Conflict Resolution Process: EU Experience for Ukraine”, which brought together scholars, researchers, educators, and civil society representatives from various European Union countries and Ukraine. The event was implemented within the framework of the Jean Monnet project of the same name (ERASMUS-JMO-2022-HEI-TCH-RSCH), co-funded by the European Union.
The conference served as a powerful platform for interdisciplinary dialogue focused on the role of civil society in resolving modern conflicts, particularly those of a hybrid nature. During the plenary sessions and panel discussions, participants explored European approaches to peacebuilding, social cohesion, the development of civic competences, and the formation of resilient societies in times of crisis. Special attention was given to education, inclusion, and psychological well-being as key components of civic stability. Representatives of universities, NGOs, and international institutions emphasized the need to combine academic knowledge with practical experience to strengthen trust and democracy within society.
Commenting on her participation, Viktoriia Shylan, a master’s student of the educational program Special Education. Speech Therapy at Rivne State University of the Humanities, noted:
“Participation in this conference was a valuable professional experience for me. The event stood out for its high academic level, the depth of discussed topics, and its interdisciplinary approach to analyzing the role of civil society in addressing today’s challenges. I was especially impressed by the opportunity to hear diverse academic perspectives and to compare European approaches to education, inclusion, and the formation of civic values. The knowledge I gained inspires further research in the field of special education within the context of European standards. I am sincerely grateful to the organizers for creating such an intellectually rich environment and for the opportunity to engage in a professional discussion!”
Tetiana Chernous, PhD in Psychology and Senior Lecturer at the Department of Psychology of the National University of Ostroh Academy, also shared her reflections:
“The conference became a wonderful space for open exchange of ideas, experiences, and inspiration. It brought together people who truly care about the future of our society and created an opportunity to talk about what truly matters — the role of citizens, interaction, and mutual support in these challenging times. Especially valuable were the discussions on psychological well-being and resourcefulness. It was gratifying to note the participants’ genuine interest in such tools as music, particularly in its practical applications. How can sound and rhythm be used to work with emotions, reduce tension, and even prevent manifestations of violence? Once again, this confirms that under the conditions of war, art-therapeutic practices acquire special significance, as they help people find inner strength, restore balance, and reconnect with themselves and others. My presentation on the Drum Power method focused precisely on the power of music as a tool for recovery, self-expression, and mutual support. Today, Ukraine is not only a country that fights, but also a country that creates new approaches, meanings, and opportunities. Such meetings prove that even in the most difficult times, we continue to grow, learn, and search for harmony — within ourselves, within society, and within the world.”
The event concluded with a joint resolution emphasizing the importance of further developing European practices in civic education, expanding partnerships between universities and civil society organizations, and integrating humanitarian and therapeutic approaches to peacebuilding and social cohesion.
This event once again reaffirmed the role of the National University of Ostroh Academy as a center of intercultural dialogue and a leader in introducing European educational and value-based practices into the Ukrainian academic space.
For reference:
The project “Civil Society in Conflict Resolution Process: EU Experience for Ukraine” (101084973 — EURoCoRP — ERASMUS-JMO-2022-HEI-TCH-RSCH) is implemented by the National University of Ostroh Academy with the co-funding of the European Union. Its main objective is to promote the values of EU civil society in the conflict resolution process and to raise awareness about contemporary hybrid conflicts.
