Panel: RELIGION AND SOCIO-CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION: PERSPECTIVES FROM VIENNA-BASED RESEARCHERS



742.2 - INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE INITIATIVES IN VIENNA AS A TOOL FOR CHANGE: POTENTIALS AND CHALLENGES IN A PLURALISTIC SOCIETY

AUTHORS:
Verbeek J. (University of Vienna ~ Vienna ~ Austria)
Text:
Interreligious dialogue provides spaces for encounter, listening, and mutual learning — qualities that can ease tensions in (pluralistic) societies. In Vienna, Jewish-Christian dialogue exemplifies both the transformative potential and the inherent challenges of such initiatives. Shaped by the legacy of antisemitism and post-Shoah reconciliation, this dialogue is embedded within complex historical and power dynamics. These dynamics often result in imbalances and victimization narratives and the aspect of dialogue shifts towards an asymmetrical encounter that emphasises learning about Jewish experiences. Additionally, differing expectations and understandings of dialogue's purpose and outcomes are brought to the table. Outlining the history of Jewish-Christian dialogue initiatives in Vienna from 1945 till the present day, also including Muslim dialogue partners, the changing attitudes, themes and outcomes of interreligious dialogue will be presented, showcasing its transformative potential.