Professional paper
Youth Against Prejudice: How the SVOJA and LEAD-Online Projects Build a More Inclusive Media Culture
Anita Tufekčić
; OŠ „Antun i Stjepan Radić“ Gunja
*
Biljana Krnjajić
; OŠ Siniše Glavaševića Vukovar
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Objective. The objective of this paper is to present and analyse the ways in which the projects SVOJA and LEAD-Online contribute to the development of media literacy and critical thinking among young people, as well as to raising awareness of issues related to gender stereotypes, prejudice, and hate speech in the digital environment. The paper focuses on understanding the pedagogical and communication approaches applied within these projects, with particular emphasis on their role in creating a safer and more inclusive digital space for young people.
Design. The paper is conceived as a professional overview and analytical reflection on project activities, based on the analysis of project documentation, educational materials, handbooks for educators, and descriptions of implemented workshops. It examines the methodological and pedagogical approaches used in the SVOJA and LEAD-Online projects, including interactive workshops, participatory methods, digital tools, and educational campaigns. Special attention is given to approaches aimed at fostering a critical attitude towards media content and at recognising discriminatory patterns and hate speech in digital media. The paper does not include empirical research or a formal evaluation of project outcomes.
Results. Based on the analysis of project materials and practical experiences, the paper highlights the potential of the SVOJA and LEAD-Online projects in empowering young people to critically reflect on digital content, recognise gender stereotypes, and understand the mechanisms through which hate speech spreads. Particular emphasis is placed on the ways in which educational activities encourage reflection, dialogue, and responsible digital behaviour, especially in work with girls and young women. The importance of creating a safe space for discussing sensitive topics in the digital environment is also underscored.
Practical implications. The experiences and models of practice presented in the SVOJA and LEAD-Online projects may serve as examples of good practice for libraries, schools, civil society organisations, and other institutions involved in education and youth work. The educational approaches described can be adapted to different local contexts and used in the development of media and digital literacy programmes, the prevention of hate speech, and the promotion of equality and responsible participation in the digital space.
Value of the paper. The value of this paper lies in demonstrating how interdisciplinary and participatory projects can contribute to the development of media-aware and socially responsible young users of digital technologies. By integrating media literacy, critical thinking, and issues of gender equality, the SVOJA and LEAD-Online projects illustrate how non-formal educational initiatives can play an important role in strengthening inclusive digital communities and social cohesion.
Keywords
critical thinking; gender stereotypes; hate speech; media literacy; LEAD-Online project; SVOJA project
Hrčak ID:
346576
URI
Publication date:
27.4.2026.
Visits: 37 *