Conversations 4 Citizenship

• Episode 01| Youth in Action : Democratic Resilience After Martial Law in South Korea

  *NOTE. This episode was recorded in January, 2025The first episode of Season 4 features three Korean university students—Yebin, Yoosun, and Junseo—who participated in protests following President Yoon Suk Yeol's declaration of martial law on December 3, 2024.  Initially, the students were shocked by the unprecedented military presence, describing the scene as "chaotic" and "unrealistic." Throughout the conversation, they explain their backgrounds in activism, ranging from labor rights to feminism and LGBTQ+ advocacy. They attribute the current crisis not only to Yoon's "incapability as a leader" but also to fundamental flaws in South Korea's constitutional system, particularly the "five-year imperial presidency."Furthermore, they critically assess South Korea's education system, noting its failure to adequately teach civic engagement and democratic values. Despite this, they acknowledge how history lessons about past resistance movements have inspired current protests.Looking ahead, the students express concern about growing political polarization but remain cautiously optimistic. They emphasize the importance of constitutional reform, stronger civic education, and continued solidarity among diverse groups. Most importantly, they stress that democracy requires constant vigilance, noting that "suspending Yoon from his duty does not automatically restore democracy."To young people around the world facing the rise of far-right movements, Korean youth emphasize the importance of solidarity and coalition-building. As Junseo points out, "We need to have coalition and solidarity under the ideas that we think are important, like equality, peace or antiwar." Moreover, they stress that democracy requires constant vigilance, as Yoosun notes, "Citizens must maintain their views and keep watching." In essence, the democratic crisis is not someone else's problem—it requires collective action across generations and borders to protect and strengthen democratic values worldwide. Contact Conversations4citizenshipTweet us @c4c_ed and @stellarcheongEmail us at [email protected] us on WhatsApp : +82 1098421801Submit your work us at http://www.conversations4citizenship.comYou can now follow the Conversations4Citizenship on Bluesky @c4cpodcast.bsky.socialThanks for listening and keeping Conversations4Citizenship podcasting!

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• Season 3 Reflections and 2024 Year in Review with Dr. Adam Lang and Dr. Stella Cheong

  The special 2024 review episode of the Conversations4Citizenship podcast takes a deep dive into a year marked by turbulence and inspiration, showcasing the resilience of global citizenship in the face of immense challenges. Hosted by Dr. Adam Peter Lang and Dr. Stella Micheong Cheong, the episode reflects on pivotal events such as elections in over half the world, revolutions in Bangladesh and Syria, ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, democratic protests in South Korea, and the evolving role of AI governance in peacebuilding. The hosts reaffirm the podcast’s mission to foster understanding and dialogue amidst an ever-changing geopolitical landscape.The episode revisits highlights from Season 3, which tackled pressing issues like misinformation, inequality, civic engagement, youth activism, and creative research methods. Notable discussions included "critical harmony" in education, technology’s potential for peacebuilding, and strategies for navigating democratic resistance. These conversations featured distinguished experts who brought fresh insights into the challenges of our time.Looking ahead to 2025, Season 4 promises an exciting shift in focus. The podcast will spotlight activists and practitioners working on the frontlines of social change, amplifying voices from diverse contexts. To enhance global dialogue, a new interactive website will also be launched, encouraging deeper engagement with listeners worldwide.As they close the episode, the hosts share a hopeful message for justice and harmony in the coming year. Now reaching listeners in 71 countries, Conversations4Citizenship Podcast has solidified its place as a leading platform for citizenship and human rights education—an essential resource for navigating today’s complex world. Contact Conversations4citizenshipTweet us @c4c_ed and @stellarcheongEmail us at [email protected] us on WhatsApp : +82 1098421801Submit your work us at http://www.conversations4citizenship.comYou can now follow the Conversations4Citizenship on Bluesky @c4cpodcast.bsky.socialThanks for listening and keeping Conversations4Citizenship podcasting!

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• Episode11_Functional Coexistence and Mediative Practice: Sustaining Peace Amidst Global Conflicts and Perspectives from Prof. Tatsushi Arai

  In the last episode of season 3, Dr. Tatsushi Arai, an associate professor in peace and conflict studies at Kent State University, joins the Conversations4Citizenship podcast to discuss his extensive work in conflict resolution, focusing on the Asia Pacific region. He recounts his experiences, including a pivotal visit to Hiroshima and his time in Rwanda post-genocide, which shaped his career in peacebuilding. Dr. Arai explores the complexities of resolving conflicts in Asia Pacific due to its religious diversity and modern identity constructs. He advocates for peacebuilding education that fosters equity, harmony, and conflict resolution skills through dialog and experiential learning. Particularly, he presented innovative methodologies like "Walk-Through History," which fosters empathy by exploring diverse historical narratives, as seen in his work on Taiwan-China relations.Highlighting projects like the Ubuntu Center for Peace in Rwanda, he underscores the role of local cultural practices in healing and reconciliation. Dr. Arai also examines how digital technology, particularly AI, influences global peace efforts by enhancing data analysis and connectivity but also warns of its potential dangers.Additionally, he emphasized dialogue and experiential learning as core principles of peace education. Dr. Arai's ongoing research includes theories of functional coexistence for sustained negative peace and mediated practices to address conflicts lacking traditional mediation structures.This episode is hosted by Dr. Stella Cheong. Please subscribe to the podcast through Apple, Google, Spotify, or Amazon Music. You may also follow @c4c_ed on Twitter. We look forward to hearing your feedback. If you would like to explore participating in our podcast and submit your blog post to the C4C,  do not hesitate to reach out through the online participation form or email us at [email protected] Reading ListArai, T. and M. Tadevosyan, eds. forthcoming 2025. Functional Coexistence in Socio-political Conflict: Enabling Social Change Across Decades. London: Routledge. (Video abstract)Arai, T. 2023. Engaging Conflict History and Memory Across the Taiwan Strait: A Longitudinal Analysis of the Conflict Timelines from Interactive Conflict Resolution (ICR) Dialogues. Negotiation Journal.Arai, T. 2022. Functional Coexistence in Intractable Conflict: A Decades-Long View of Conflict Intervention. Peace and Change 47: 1-34.Arai, T and J.B. Niyonzima. 2019. Learning Together to Heal: Toward an Integrated Practice of Transpersonal Psychology, Experiential Learning, and Neuroscience for Collective Healing. Peace and Conflict Studies 26 (2). Contact Conversations4citizenshipTweet us @c4c_ed and @stellarcheongEmail us at [email protected] us on WhatsApp : +82 1098421801Submit your work us at http://www.conversations4citizenship.comYou can now follow the Conversations4Citizenship on Bluesky @c4cpodcast.bsky.socialThanks for listening and keeping Conversations4Citizenship podcasting!

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• Episode 10_Cultivating Truthful Citizens in a populist era: Conversation with Prof. Sarah Stitzlein

  In this compelling episode of the Conversations4Citizenship podcast, host Kamille Beye speaks with Professor Sarah Stitzlein, an education and philosophy expert from the University of Cincinnati, about her groundbreaking work on honesty in citizenship education. Dr. Stitzlein explores the critical role of truth-telling in democratic societies, particularly in our current post-truth and populist era.Drawing from her pragmatist philosophical perspective, Stitzlein argues that honesty is more than a personal virtue—it's a social practice essential for democratic problem-solving. She emphasizes the importance of teaching honesty not through mere fact transmission, but by developing habits of truth-seeking and truth-telling among students.The discussion delves into complex challenges facing modern democracy, including political polarization, misinformation, and the impact of digital technologies like generative AI. Sarah provides nuanced insights into how educators can help students critically examine information, understand emotional responses to news, and develop an informed approach to trust in democratic institutions.By highlighting real-world examples, such as the recent controversy in Springfield, Ohio, Dr. Stitzlein demonstrates how dishonesty can have profound civic consequences, underscoring the urgent need for honest civic engagement.This episode is hosted by Dr. Kamille Beye. Please subscribe to the podcast through Apple, Google, Spotify, or Amazon Music. You may also follow @c4c_ed on Twitter. We look forward to hearing your feedback. If you would like to explore participating in our podcast and submit your blog post to the C4C,  do not hesitate to reach out through the online participation form or email us at [email protected] Reading ListStitzlein, S. M. (2024). Teaching Honesty in a Populist Era: Emphasizing Truth in the Education of Citizens. Oxford University Press. *Note. Use code ASFLYQ6 to save 30% on Dr. Stitzlein's new book purchase!Stitzlein, S. M. (2019). Learning how to hope: Reviving democracy through our schools and civil society. Oxford University Press.Stitzlein, S. M. (2017). American public education and the responsibility of its citizens: Supporting democracy in the age of accountability. Oxford University Press. Contact Conversations4citizenshipTweet us @c4c_ed and @stellarcheongEmail us at [email protected] us on WhatsApp : +82 1098421801Submit your work us at http://www.conversations4citizenship.comYou can now follow the Conversations4Citizenship on Bluesky @c4cpodcast.bsky.socialThanks for listening and keeping Conversations4Citizenship podcasting!

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• Episode 9_Bangladesh's Democratic Uprising: Insights from MP Rupa Huq and Ajmain Naklib on the Power of Youth Activism and Diaspora

  In this gripping episode of Conversations4Citizenship, we navigates the seismic political upheaval in Bangladesh, marked by the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after 15 years of authoritarian rule. The episode unfolds against the backdrop of widespread student protests that escalated into deadly clashes with government forces, highlighting the formidable power of youth activism. Dr. Rupa Huq, a UK Member of Parliament with deep ties to the Bangladeshi diaspora, and Ajmain Adil Naklib, a young environmentalist from Dhaka, join the discussion to provide invaluable insights into this pivotal moment in history. They explore the birth of a new democratic era in Bangladesh, the role of global citizenship, and the broader implications for the region.From the power of youth activism to the role of global citizenship in shaping these events, our conversation explores the seismic shift in Bangladesh's political landscape. Dr. Huq shares her perspective on the significant role of the Bangladeshi diaspora in amplifying global awareness about these events, drawing parallels to historical movements like Tiananmen Square and the Arab Spring. Ajmain offers a first-hand account of the protests, emphasizing the unprecedented unity among diverse groups in Bangladesh and the crucial role of social media in organizing and sustaining the movement. Together, they paint a vivid picture of a nation on the brink of transformation, driven by a new generation determined to reshape its future. This episode is a compelling exploration of how grassroots movements can ignite change and challenge entrenched political systems.This episode is hosted by Dr. Adam Lang. Please subscribe to the podcast through Apple, Google, Spotify, or Amazon Music. You may also follow @c4c_ed on Twitter. We look forward to hearing your feedback. If you would like to explore participating in our podcast and submit your blog post to the C4C,  do not hesitate to reach out through the online participation form or email us at [email protected] Further Reading ListBangladesh clashes: 90 killed in anti-government protestsTimeline: The rise and fall of Bangladesh PM Sheikh HasinaViolence breaks out at Bangladesh anti-quota protests, government orders probe into killingsGen Z and Bangladesh 2.0 Excerpts from Parliamentary debateHouse of Commons   Contact Conversations4citizenshipTweet us @c4c_ed and @stellarcheongEmail us at [email protected] us on WhatsApp : +82 1098421801Submit your work us at http://www.conversations4citizenship.comYou can now follow the Conversations4Citizenship on Bluesky @c4cpodcast.bsky.socialThanks for listening and keeping Conversations4Citizenship podcasting!

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