Treaty of Middelburg
I would want to encourage everybody in the world to understand that there is no 'one way' to go towards freedom. And that everybody must be open to understanding what is reasonable within multiple perspectives, and for that — a great deal of noble empathy is needed.
Team members
- ■ Matthew James Adrian
Why do you want to participate?
Due to my background in political science and my multicultural experiences (both at home and here in the Netherlands), I have always been interested with freedom and its counterpart — oppression — embedded within differing cultural perspectives. These differing paradigms are indicative of interpretive variations upon the nature of freedom being inseparable under the 'structure of power.' My enthusiasm lies in discussing these differences together with other peers within similar age groups, and how I can learn more regarding considering and 'striving' for an inclusive freedom!
What does freedom mean to you?
For me, freedom is liberation; unshackled, allowing individuals to practice their capabilities to the fullest potential (as reasonably possible). However, due to the very subjective and culturally-specific 'freedom' is, I myself wonder whether 'true freedom' really means. Is being 'unrestrained' mean 'anarchy'? Or can true freedom exist within order? I believe freedom in its practice, for our current reality, lies on the way we as human communities are able to discuss our differences, and allow others to be unburdened — make compromises, not concessions. It is to openly state these boundaries, and flexibly adjust it as we move, is the way for 'real' freedom can be achieved.
What are the biggest challenges?
I believe there is a lack of paradigm-sharing and dialogue, and that there is a problem with perceiving 'freedom' as 'one way or the other.' Meanwhile, freedom must be reached via consensus, and that where there is no understanding, there will be no 'real freedom.' Enforcing one's concept of 'freedom' to another, is no freedom. There is a dominant discourse for a more 'Western-dominated' view of freedom, where there is a lack of multicultural understanding of both 'oppression' and furthermore, 'justice.' However, I believe this is the biggest challenge regarding freedom through all the times, not just young people.
Do you have a message?
None so far, as my messages and ideas have been shared at full within my regards sent previously. However, I am excited to join the event and to connect with like-minded (or even 'un'-like-minded) people! Looking forward to learn from different perspectives, and hope to enjoy Middelburg!
