Wall Breakers

Our reflections

Microaggression

I have come to realize that even when I intend to offer a compliment, it may unintentionally carry prejudices or false assumptions. At times, what I perceive as politeness can in fact manifest as microaggressions, inadvertently causing discomfort or offense to others.

Equality vs. Equity – Are there any differences?

There is an important distinction between equality and equity. Equality ensures that everyone receives the same resources or opportunities, regardless of their circumstances. Equity, on the other hand, recognizes individual differences and provides each person with what they specifically need to thrive. For instance, a sighted person does not require a white cane, whereas someone who is blind depends on one to navigate the world independently.

Act out a short scene in which a conflict arises – and resolve it using a communication strategy from the workshop.

A: Hey B, can I talk to you about something that’s been on my mind?
B: Of course, what’s up?
A: So, I noticed you posted that group photo from yesterday on Instagram. I felt really uncomfortable because I don’t like how I look in it. When pictures of me go online without me knowing, I feel like I don’t have control.
B: Oh, I didn’t realize it made you feel that way. I just thought it was a fun memory to share. I wasn’t trying to upset you.
A: I know, and I appreciate that. I’d just like it if you could ask me first before posting photos that include me.
B: That’s totally fair. I’ll take it down, and from now on I’ll check with you before I post. Thanks for telling me instead of just staying upset.
A: Thanks for understanding. I do love that we’re making memories together — I just want to feel comfortable too.
B: Deal. Next time, we’ll pick the photo together!

Reflection: Which communication strategies helped you the most? Write down three concrete tips for other young people.

Talking about feelings helps us because putting our emotions into our words makes them clearer and easier to understand. Sharing what we think builds stronger bonds and helps to let other people understand deeply, since it shares a new perspective. Overall, expressing feelings makes them easier to handle. 

• Be open to opinions
• Talk about future solutions, not the past
• Use ‘i’ messages – Be open to your own opinions and embrace them as something that forms your identity, talk about how I feel.

Task: Find a place or an object that impressed you the most.
Take a photo of it and write a short text (3–4 sentences) about why you believe this place is important for peace.

The holocaust monument 

At first, I thought it was just a bunch of stones. But when I walked in, the walls got higher and deeper  and I couldn’t see the people around us anymore. It felt a bit lonely and showed me how people slowly became “invisible” in society during the Holocaust.

The monument impressed me because it transforms a simple structure into a powerful reminder of loss, invisibility, and the importance of remembering history.

What differences in hand signs do your team members have? Do you use the same ones or are they different?

Sign: “ok”: 👌

> Japanese people: this sign means that it’s ok
> German people: this sign means that you’re an asshole

Sign: “No”:

German people:

🙅‍♂️

Japanese people: 

Sign: “stupid”:

> German people: windshield wiper; with the left hand with the thumb knocking on the head
> Japanese people: right hand on height of the head with outstretched finger in the left direction → turn your finger to the right

How do your teammates show agreement or disagreement – in the same way as you

Japan:
Yes → nodding, soft “hai,” sometimes OK pose 🙆‍♀️
No → 🙅‍♂️ arm cross gesture

Germany:
Yes → clear “yes” with words or 👍 thumbs-up
No → head shake, direct “no”

Overall: Japan = more body language
Germany = more direct words.

Compare street signs and pictograms between Germany and Japan. What differences do you notice?

Pictograms (Germany)

• Green sign (Meeting point): At first I thought it meant “please look at me” (from Japanese ambassador). Actually, it shows the meeting point in case of emergency.
• Blue sign (Residential / play street zone): Clear symbols of family, child playing, car, and house. Shows that cars must slow down and children can play.

Pictograms (Japan)

• Tsunami evacuation building: A running person escaping from a big wave to a tall building.
• Pedestrian crossing: A man with a hat walking on the crosswalk.

Task: Culture Swap Video or Poster: Create a short video or visual poster showing what ‚respect‘ means in your culture and how it compares to others.

Overall

Germany: Signs are simple & functional. Easy shapes, clear meaning.
Japan: Signs are expressive & detailed. Sometimes look like a story (ex: running man from tsunami).

Task: Negotiation Reflection Article: Write a brief article about your experience negotiating a solution that satisfies different sides. What worked? What was challenging?

Negotiations are often difficult, as it can be hard to find a solution that makes everyone happy. This is mainly because each party usually has different interests. That is why it is important to deal with cultural differences in the right way and, above all, to treat everyone with respect — for example, by listening carefully.

It can also help to keep in mind what matters most to the other side and what is important to yourself. Negotiation should not be about winning, but about finding a solution that works for everyone. Sometimes, time pressure can help bring a negotiation to a quicker conclusion.

In addition, creativity is often needed to reach a good compromise. As a well-known saying puts it: “A good compromise leaves everybody mad behind.”

Task: Diplomacy in Action: Collect tips on how diplomacy can be practiced in everyday life and share them in a short text.

Diplomacy can be practiced in everyday life through these tips. First, by actively listening while others speak, it shows respect and helps you choose words thoughtfully to avoid unnecessary conflicts. By enhancing your communication skills, and asking questions instead of making assumptions, you can make discussions clearer and meaningful. 

Task: Create a set of articles (image + short text) that explain the role of diplomacy for peace to young people.

No single country can solve climate change, pandemics, or hunger alone. Diplomacy brings nations together to find solutions that work for all.

The image is AI generated

Diplomacy means every voice matters. When countries listen to each other, even small nations can shape a more peaceful world.

The image is AI generated

Diplomacy connects countries like a bridge. It allows ideas, culture, and support to flow　helping people understand each other better.

The image is AI generated

Task: Choose a place or monument that makes diversity visible. Describe in 2-3 sentences why it is important to make this/these group(s) visible in peace. Create a symbol or hashtag (e.g., #Peace/Diversity) that captures your message.

There is a memorial for the massacred European Jews, a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It allows you to consider the way of mourning and diversity for the diverse people who have been historically persecuted. #Diversity

Task: Identify at least three SDGs that are connected to your daily activities in the Academy. Create a symbol or emoji for each of the SDGs you discovered.

• quality education 📚
• gender equality 🟰
• reduced inequalities⚖️

Task: Develop a mini-idea (2-3 sentences) for a project in your hometown that supports an SDG and promotes peace.

In my hometown, we could create a Community Garden & Dialogue Space where people of different backgrounds come together to grow food, to talk and socialise . This project would support SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by fostering sustainability, cooperation, and mutual understanding. It would not only provide fresh produce but also strengthen community ties and promote peaceful coexistence.

A shared garden where neighbors grow food, share cultures, and build peace together.

Task: Write a short statement together (max. 5 sentences) titled ‚Never Again‘ that summarizes your impressions and your message to future generations.

‚Never Again‘

What we saw here was cruel beyond words.

The suffering is something we cannot fully express.

History can be shaped by politics, so we must think for ourselves.

By remembering, we carry responsibility for the future.

Never again should such darkness be allowed to return.