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Coffee Talk in Jerash
Youth Dialogue in the Heart of History

2.8 Minutes
Gloria Al-Khalasa is a Communications Officer at the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) in Jordan. With a degree in Languages and Translation, she has experience in NGOs . She is multilingual, fluent in Ukrainian, Russian, English and Italian, and also has a keen interest in photography and composing articles.
  Gloria Halasa
Coffee Talk 4

What motivates young people to take part in shaping public life? How can open dialogue strengthen civic responsibility and liberal values? And why is it important to discuss these questions in places that carry history and meaning?

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), in collaboration with Opinions Without Borders, organised a new Coffee Talk session in the historic city of Jerash. This was the fourth edition of the Coffee Talk series, which continues to bring together young people from across Jordan to exchange ideas, discuss public issues, and reflect on the values of freedom, participation, and responsibility. Taking place inside the archaeological site of Jerash, the session combined an inspiring environment with contemporary discussions on civic engagement, democracy, and social progress.

An Interactive Format for Constructive Exchange

The event gathered 20 participants interested in policy, governance, and social innovation. It followed an interactive rotating discussion format designed to encourage participation and teamwork. Four tables were arranged, each focusing on one key policy theme: Globalism, Decentralisation, Social Market Economy, and Political Youth Participation.

Participants formed small groups and rotated between tables every 15 minutes. This setup allowed everyone to contribute to all four discussions, meet new peers at each round, and reflect on different perspectives. The design encouraged dialogue rather than debate, ensuring that every participant had the chance to express ideas and build on others’ thoughts. By the end of the session, the group had collectively explored how these concepts intersect and influence life in Jordan and beyond.

Coffee Talk 4

Empowering Youth Voices

At the heart of the Coffee Talk series is the goal of creating a space for young people to express themselves freely and learn through dialogue. The Jerash session gave participants the opportunity to examine how liberal principles—such as individual responsibility, economic freedom, and decentralised decision-making—can translate into practical approaches to local and national challenges.

Discussions focused on how decentralisation can make governance more responsive, how the social market economy balances freedom and fairness, and how global connectivity influences opportunities for youth. The participants demonstrated genuine interest, curiosity, and a strong sense of civic duty, showing that young Jordanians are ready to engage critically and constructively with complex public issues.

Continuing the Conversation

This fourth Coffee Talk session is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen youth participation and civic dialogue across Jordan. Each session offers an open, accessible platform for young people to share perspectives, develop critical thinking, and understand the value of pluralism in society.

By organising such initiatives, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom continues to promote a culture of dialogue where ideas are exchanged respectfully, and solutions are explored collaboratively. Coffee Talk remains a living example of how inclusive conversation can help shape informed, responsible, and forward-looking citizens—bridging generations, experiences, and ideas for a freer and more open society.