Lübeck, Germany, is preparing to host a unique event designed to foster constructive dialogue and conflict resolution skills. The European Hansemuseum (EHM) will host “Konflikt & Konsens” – a three-hour interactive game – on March 16, 2026, as part of the Antiracist Cultural Days of Lübeck. In a world increasingly characterized by polarized debate, the museum is offering a space to explore the complexities of disagreement and the search for common ground. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of civil discourse and the need for innovative approaches to navigating challenging conversations.
The game, designed for participants aged 16 to 99, aims to simulate real-world negotiation scenarios, encouraging players to debate, persuade, and seek compromise. Organizers emphasize that success isn’t necessarily about “winning” but about the process of engagement and the potential for learning. The event is particularly timely, as societies grapple with escalating tensions across political, social, and personal spheres. The European Hansemuseum’s choice to address these issues through an interactive format underscores a broader trend of museums evolving into dynamic centers for civic engagement and societal reflection. The event will be offered twice on March 16th, from 10:00 to 13:00 and again from 18:00 to 21:00, in the “La Rochelle / Visby” hall within the museum. Participation is free, but registration is required, with a maximum of 66 participants per session.
A Historical Lens on Modern Conflict
The choice of the European Hansemuseum as the venue for “Konflikt & Konsens” is deliberate. The Hanseatic League, a medieval commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns, relied heavily on consensus-building for its operations. As Dr. Felicia Sternfeld, Director of the European Hansemuseum, explained, “Museums are not just places of the past, but spaces for current societal dialogue and democratic negotiation.” The League’s decision-making process, based on unanimous agreement, offers a historical parallel to the challenges of modern conflict resolution. The game aims to draw lessons from this historical context, prompting participants to consider how the principles of compromise and collaboration can be applied to contemporary issues. The Hanseatic League, flourishing from the 13th to 17th centuries, provides a fascinating case study in how diverse interests can be aligned through negotiation and mutual understanding.
Europäisches Hansemuseum Lübeck
Copyright HL
The Antiracist Cultural Days Context
“Konflikt & Konsens” is being held within the framework of the Antiracist Cultural Days, taking place in Lübeck from March 13th to 31st, 2026. These cultural days, operating under the motto “100% Human Dignity. Together Against Racism and Right-Wing Extremism,” aim to promote solidarity, respect, and democratic values. The event’s inclusion in this broader initiative highlights the connection between conflict resolution skills and the fight against prejudice and discrimination. The organizers believe that fostering constructive dialogue is essential for building a more inclusive and equitable society. The Antiracist Cultural Days feature a diverse program of events, including discussions, readings, workshops, exhibitions, and cultural performances, all designed to challenge racism and promote understanding. The program aims to provide a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, encouraging critical reflection on issues of social justice.
How the Game Works
Participants in “Konflikt & Konsens” will engage in a mix of debate, playful tasks, and unexpected twists, designed to test their negotiation skills, persuasive abilities, and teamwork. The game isn’t about finding the “right” answer, but about exploring different approaches to conflict and understanding the dynamics of power and compromise. Snacks and historical anecdotes will be provided to enhance the experience and provide context. The event is designed to be accessible to all, with no prior knowledge required – only curiosity, a willingness to engage with others, and a playful spirit. The organizers anticipate that participants will gain valuable experience, new perspectives, and potentially, new skills for navigating future disagreements. The interactive nature of the game is intended to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment, where participants can actively apply conflict resolution strategies.
The European Hansemuseum’s initiative comes at a time when public discourse is often characterized by rapid escalation and a lack of nuanced debate. The museum’s willingness to tackle conflict head-on, rather than avoiding it, represents a bold and innovative approach to civic education. By providing a safe and structured environment for participants to practice their negotiation skills, “Konflikt & Konsens” aims to empower individuals to engage in more constructive conversations and contribute to a more peaceful and understanding society. The event’s focus on historical context adds another layer of depth, reminding participants that the challenges of conflict resolution are not new, and that valuable lessons can be learned from the past.
Registration and Further Information
Interested individuals can register for “Konflikt & Konsens” through the European Hansemuseum’s website: www.hansemuseum.eu. Tickets are free of charge. Further information about the Antiracist Cultural Days can be found on the Lübeck city portal: https://www.luebeck.de/arkt. The event promises a stimulating and thought-provoking experience for anyone interested in improving their conflict resolution skills and contributing to a more constructive public discourse.
The next confirmed checkpoint for information regarding the Antiracist Cultural Days and associated events is March 1, 2026, when the full program schedule will be published on the Lübeck city portal. We encourage readers to share this article with anyone who might be interested in participating in “Konflikt & Konsens” and contributing to a more constructive dialogue on important societal issues.