2025:Program/Let’s disagree together! Exploring a controversial topic

Session title: Let’s disagree together! Exploring a controversial topic

Session type: Workshop - 85 minutes

Track: Clubhouse Social

Language: en

As wikimedians, we like conflicts. We have (strong) opinions, and we have (hard) feelings. This will be a space to voice them, on one topic in particular: our responsibilities towards society. As wikipedians, should we document every kind of content, even if controversial or offensive? Or should we always keep in mind the effect that Wikipedia has on society, and worry that what we say might be harmful?

The session will start with a debate between two opposing voices, followed by a discussion among the attendees, with the aim of allowing different voices to be heard, and understanding each other’s point of view. Agreeing is not expected!

Description

This session will start with a short debate (loosely inspired by debate competitions) showing two opposing voices on a divisive and strongly felt topic. After that, attendees will be asked to bring their voice; reflecting on what they just heard, or adding their points of view.

The topic we will focus is our responsibilities towards the society. As wikipedians, our key responsibility is to document everything, irrespective of how divisive or offensive might be the topic? or should we worry about the effects we have on the world, and maybe that in some case we might do harm?

The topic was chosen as one that is divisive, relevant for the participants, with strong emotions on both sides, but also focused. In 2023, a similar session explored the tension on credit and recognition between volunteers and staff; and in 2024, the one between community and organizations.

While this session will give space to different views, and will have a debate at the beginning, it is not meant to persuade anyone of anything, and it will not seek to have a winner; nor it is a place to make decisions. The goal is to express the different positions, fears and hopes, allowing people to voice them and to listen to them.

How does your session relate to the event theme, Wikimania@20 – Inclusivity. Impact. Sustainability?

When we are in a conflict, we tend to not listen, understand or recognize other people. This session is meant as a space for people to listen to each other, including those who have opposite perspectives in a conflict, which is critical for creating an inclusive space.

What is the experience level needed for the audience for your session?

Some experience will be needed

Speakers

• Lorenzo Losa

Long term wikipedian, former chair of Wikimedia Italy, vice chair of the board of the Wikimedia Foundation.

• Miriam Konert (WMDE)

I am a certified mediator, coach and facilitator with formal training in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and 15 years of experience helping resolve conflicts across diverse settings - from NGOs and unions to theater organizations and private individuals. As a practicing mediator for 5 years, I'm passionate about creating safe spaces where all voices can be heard. Since September 2023, I've led a team at Wikimedia Deutschland that offers voluntary support to wiki communities facing conflicts, burnout, and tensions. We provide tailored, needs-based support that the communities can access voluntarily, respecting their autonomy and unique characteristics. My approach focuses on fostering genuine dialogue and transforming how we communicate with each other.