The “Geist & Gegenwart” (“The spirit & the present”) Whitsun Dialogues that have been taking place at Seggau Castle since 2005 reflect on the challenges and problems facing Europe and aspire to contribute to a sustainable dialogue about a European future. In addition, they always offer an assessment of the current state of “Project Europe”, its progress, hopes and opportunities but also the risks and problems ahead.
Thanks to the events held so far, the Whitsun Dialogue has become established as a formal platform for fruitful interdisciplinary and international debate about fundamental principles of science and politics, set in the context of the southern Styrian border region, where four European cultures meet. Styrian universities and research institutions have been actively included from the very beginning.
With keynotes, panel debates and small workshop-style groups, the Whitsun Dialogue offers a diverse range of formats and ways of entering into dialogue, exchanging ideas and gaining a new perspective. Cultural events are also a traditional part of the multi-day programme.
Numerous distinguished personalities from the worlds of science, business, politics, culture, media, religion and civil society regularly take part in the talks, along with young people from all over Europe. Participation programmes for scientists – especially for the next generation of scientists – ensure that the scientific community is always well-represented.
