Since the establishment of the Betzavta method and the publication of the „Betzavta“ handbook in Germany, the Adam Institute for Democracy and Peace in Jerusalem has expanded the basic concept in various directions and adapted it to current developments.
This course, held in English, provides insight into these developments and offers the opportunity to learn directly from the inventor of the Betzavta method, co-founder and director of the Adam Institute for Democracy and Peace in Jerusalem, Dr. Maroshek-Klarman.
The course is suitable for Betzavta trainers working in Germany or abroad, as well as for interested individuals who want to get to know this fascinating method.
The focus of this year’s training is on the challenges facing democracies today, which manifest themselves in various processes of erosion and the retreat of democratic principles across Europe and the world. Similar developments can be observed in Germany and other European countries, as well as in Israel and the USA — providing plenty of material for discussion well beyond these countries. The transition from democracy to authoritarian forms of governance, with aspects of modern fascism, appears to be progressing gradually, and at times rapidly.
These developments require those involved in democracy education to engage with both new and familiar questions — such as how to deal with the „tyranny of the majority,“ how to define a „defensive democracy“ and its limits, and where the limits of obedience lie — and to take these into account in their practice.
„Betzavta“ trainers must ask themselves what consequences these developments have for working with the „Betzavta“ method, and consider: Are we facing a dilemma in how we transform conflicts into dilemmas? Should we take a more decisive and clearer stance?
The topic of war will also be addressed. The seminar offers the opportunity to explore the situation in Israel/Palestine together with Dr. Maroshek-Klarman, from the perspective of an Israeli peace activist, and — by connecting with her colleague Saber Rabi — from the perspective of a Palestinian peace activist.
