The Report details the sessions of the V Euromed Young Researchers Forum, which took place in Mollina (Spain) on 16 and 17 September, focusing on the disruptive narratives which have shaped public opinions and deepened social cleavages across societies in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which has multifaceted and significant impacts on the Mediterranean region.

20 young experts reflected on factors that are currently threatening social cohesion, peace and reform efforts and put forward new priority areas for a more cohesive, inclusive and peaceful Euro-Mediterranean region with young people at its centre.

The Report focuses on the development and conclusions of the Forum’s two Working Sessions on Spotlighting narratives and social cleavages in the Euro-Mediterranean region in 2022, and Actors and means to overcome divisions; and the Practitioners Session, where participants had the opportunity to exchange with Luis Miguel Bueno Padilla, Spokesperson in Arabic from the EEAS.

Young experts discussed the EU’s strategic communication in the MENA region following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the recent refugee crises, media influence and public opinion, and how to counter misinformation and disinformation. Finally, the report sheds light on the Policy Talks session, where young experts discussed youth participation and representation in the region, intercultural dialogue, and the needs of youth, as well as pathways to bridge the research-civil society-policy dimensions for more inclusive policymaking.