Format: In-person
Open to: General public
The Human Rights Café returns in 2026 with a new edition dedicated to discussing the state of human rights and democracy in Europe’s peripheral regions. Its first in-person session will take place in Padua on 18 March from 14:30 to 18:00 (CET) at Centro di Ateneo per i Diritti Umani “Antonio Papisca”, Via Beato Pellegrino 28.
The Human Rights Café initiative brings together participants from several Arqus member universities. This year’s theme, “Voices from the Peripheries”, invites participants to reflect on how geographical, social and political distance from central hubs can influence whose voices are heard and whose remain overlooked. It creates an informal and safe space for open dialogue on human rights, encouraging students, researchers, professionals and members of the wider community to engage in meaningful discussions beyond the traditional academic setting.
This year’s edition focuses on the idea of peripheries, as many of the universities involved in the project are located in cities that are not political or economic capitals. These contexts often present specific challenges and perspectives related to human rights and democratic participation, which participants will explore together during the discussions.
Participants are encouraged to grab a coffee or tea and join the conversation, sharing perspectives and contributing to discussions about human rights and democracy in contemporary Europe.