Divisive messages aided by social platforms and mainstream media gradually take root to demonize marginalized groups while undermining functional democracies. We are all vulnerable to the constant barrage of (mis)information, but young people face a unique challenge sorting through the polarizing rhetoric, often without the historical context necessary to place the current moment in perspective. Against this backdrop, human rights education and advocacy can provide a necessary counter-balance, encouraging young people to seek alternative perspectives and play an active role in resisting measures that threaten democratic freedoms.
With support from the University of Minnesota Human Rights Lab, we began a multidisciplinary collaboration to develop a model for localized, place-based human rights education in Hungary, where the ruling right-wing Fidesz-KDNP coalition has consolidated control over parliament, regulatory branches of government, and mainstream media outlets. Hungary is p