From City Streets to Global Conflicts: A Day of Discovery

The fourth day took participants beyond the training room and into the streets of Riga, where learning happened through conversations, observations, and real encounters with history and society.

The morning began with a snowy walk through the Latvian capital. Covered in winter atmosphere, Riga offered participants not only beautiful views and historical landmarks, but also an opportunity to better understand the city beyond its architecture. As the group explored the streets together, the experience felt less like a tour and more like a chance to connect with the stories, memories, and realities that shape the country today.

One of the most meaningful parts of the day came through conversations with local residents about Latvia’s historical experience under Russian occupation. Participants conducted short interviews and listened to a wide range of personal perspectives. Some older residents reflected on the past with nostalgia and did not necessarily describe Russia’s presence in Latvia as an occupation. Meanwhile, many younger people shared very different viewpoints, explaining how access to education, independent media, and historical research has influenced the way newer generations understand Latvia’s history.

These conversations became powerful reminders that history is rarely experienced in the same way by everyone. Participants reflected on how propaganda, lived experience, education, and generational memory can shape people’s understanding of the past in very different directions.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted from local history to global issues through an interactive map-based activity about conflicts around the world. Participants explored different types of wars and crises, including civil wars, interstate conflicts, and situations connected to political instability and organized crime. By analysing real examples from different regions, the group discussed the complex social, political, and economic factors that often lead societies into conflict.

The day concluded with a debate on humanitarian aid and crisis response. Participants discussed difficult but important questions: Who should carry the main responsibility during humanitarian emergencies, governments or local communities? Which systems do people trust more during crises? And how can aid remain fair, effective, and accessible to those who need it most?

The discussion encouraged participants to think critically not only about humanitarian support itself, but also about trust, responsibility, solidarity, and the role communities play during uncertain times.

By the end of the day, participants had explored much more than history or politics. They reflected on how societies remember the past, how conflicts shape people’s lives, and how communities respond when faced with crisis and uncertainty.

This project is funded by the European Union. However, the views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the European Union or the Youth International Program Agency.

Neither the European Union nor the awarding authority can be held responsible for them.

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