Social cohesion in Europe is under enormous pressure. Polarization, loss of trust in institutions, digital bubbles, and the consequences of the war in Ukraine have weakened social bonds. This erosion has far-reaching consequences: loneliness is becoming a mass phenomenon, psychological stress is on the rise, and the emphasis on individual uniqueness is promoting narcissistic tendencies that make cooperation more difficult. The lower the cohesion, the higher the costs of cooperation. This affects Central, Eastern, and Western Europe equally, with different influencing factors. Each new crisis becomes more difficult to overcome. Churches have enormous potential to connect people, promote trust, and live out solidarity. However, they themselves are affected by division or have to contend with forces that have a divisive effect.
The 30th International Congress Renovabis, which will take place on 17 and 18 September 2026 in Freising and as a livestream, will therefore be dedicated to the topic “Beyond Polarization – Perspectives for Social Cohesion in East and West” (working title). The congress will examine key mechanisms and causes that threaten cohesion in Europe, including polarization, loss of trust, digital bubbles, and the consequences of the war in Ukraine.
The conference languages will be German, English, and Italian.
Renovabis has been organising an annual international congress on behalf of the German Bishops' Conference since 1997. This event with participants from all parts of Europe serves to inform about and discuss important developments in church and society in Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, and also addresses topics of pan-European importance. Over the years, the International Congress Renovabis has developed into an important forum for dialogue between people from the eastern and western parts of Europe.