Nordic Youth Media Lab | Training #3
Democracy is often discussed as a political system.
But democracy is also something much more personal.
It lives in conversations, in communities, in trust, and in our ability to engage with information responsibly.
These themes formed the foundation of the third international workshop of the Nordic Youth Media Lab project, held online on 20 May 2026.
The session, titled “Building Democratic Resilience through Media Literacy and Civic Education”, brought together young people, educators, media practitioners, and civic actors from across the Nordic-Baltic region to explore the connection between media literacy and democratic participation.
Why Media Literacy Matters for Democracy
In today’s digital environment, democratic participation increasingly takes place online.
Social media platforms have become spaces where public debates unfold, opinions are formed, and civic engagement happens.
At the same time, these spaces are vulnerable to polarization, misinformation, and manipulation.
Participants examined how information ecosystems influence democratic processes and discussed ways to strengthen public trust, informed participation, and constructive dialogue.
Through case studies and group discussions, the workshop explored both the opportunities and challenges of digital democracy.
Learning from Real Experiences
The training was led by renowned Danish journalist and media expert Leif Lonsmann, who shared decades of experience working with media, public communication, and democratic engagement.
Participants analysed examples of misinformation campaigns, examined how public trust can be undermined, and discussed strategies for fostering resilience within communities.
Particular attention was given to the role of young people as active contributors to democratic societies.
Expert Perspective
According to Leif Lonsmann, democratic resilience is built long before a crisis emerges.
“Trust is one of the most valuable resources a society can have. Media literacy helps protect that trust by enabling people to make informed decisions, engage critically with information, and participate constructively in democratic life.”
His presentation encouraged participants to view media literacy not only as a technical skill but also as a democratic responsibility.
Voices from Participants
The workshop inspired participants to reflect on their own roles in society.
“This training helped me realise that democracy is not something distant. Every time we engage responsibly with information, we contribute to democratic resilience.”
— Youth participant, Sweden
“I appreciated the discussions about trust and dialogue. These topics are extremely relevant in today’s online environment.”
— Youth participant, Finland
Educators’ Reflection
Youth workers and educators highlighted the importance of connecting media literacy with civic education.
“Young people are often very skilled in using digital tools, but they also need opportunities to discuss values, trust, and responsible participation. This workshop successfully connected these dimensions.”
— Youth educator, Denmark
Strengthening Democratic Culture
The workshop reinforced the idea that democratic resilience cannot be achieved through regulation or technology alone.
It depends on informed citizens, open dialogue, and communities that value trust, participation, and critical thinking.
These principles remain at the heart of Nordic democratic traditions and continue to be relevant in an increasingly interconnected world.
Coming Next
Youth & Social Media Branding through Media Literacy and Digital Engagement
📅 5 June 2026
The final workshop of the Nordic Youth Media Lab series will focus on personal branding, authentic communication, audience engagement, and responsible use of AI in digital content creation.
Participants will gain practical tools for building credibility and creating positive impact through digital platforms.
About Nordic Youth Media Lab
Nordic Youth Media Lab strengthens democratic resilience, media literacy, and digital competencies among young people through international learning and cooperation across the Nordic-Baltic region.
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