From 11–13 November 2025, Lucy Plummer represented SGI at the 6th European Policy Dialogue Forum (EDPF), held at the headquarters of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Geneva. The event brought together representatives from across diverse faith traditions, policymakers and government officials to discuss two of the most pressing issues affecting Europe: social cohesion and climate change. The event was effective in building bridges across social, political and religious divides, paving the way for continued dialogue and collaboration for strengthening the foundation of equity and justice in Europe.

Since its founding in 2012, the International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID) has worked together with partners such as the European Council of Religious Leaders (ECRL)  to convene the EDPF as a platform to promote interreligious and intercultural dialogue on important issues and foster peace in Europe. The theme of the 6th EDPF, “Social Cohesion in Changing Climates,” focused on the challenge of responding to societal fractures in an increasingly fragile environment through fostering a culture of inclusion, upholding human rights and protecting natural resources from the consequences of harmful and unsustainable practices. The Forum was part of the EDPF’s call to action to put the prosperity of people and the planet first and build partnerships that promote a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Over the course of three days, more than 100 participants observed panel discussions on topics that emphasized how finding common ground for action through shared values and principles can help to confront deepening social and economic inequalities exacerbated by environmental problems, including climate change. The discussions reinforced the key messages of the Forum: that social cohesion and climate justice are inseparable issues, the foundation of resilient societies is equity and, in times of crisis, dialogue is essential.

On a panel exploring how structural inequalities, social exclusion and  environmental degradation and climate change impact the lives of vulnerable groups, Lucy Plummer spoke out on young people’s mental health and well-being, an issue recognized by the World Health Organization and UNICEF as a public health issue requiring global action. Highlighting the important role faith can play in giving hope to young people, Plummer spoke about SGI’s youth engagement initiatives that are aimed at awakening young people to a sense of purpose and mission. These programs, she explained, provide a vital source of encouragement to young people in challenging times, empowering them to overcome feelings of powerlessness. Speaking about the principle of human revolution, which teaches that the transformation of one’s own attitude and actions is the starting point to bring about change in one’s environment, Plummer shared that SGI’s focus on individual empowerment is a powerful message of hope. Plummer also emphasized the importance of youth exchange as a way to promote friendship and strengthen solidarity among youth of different nations, and she shared examples to demonstrate how it can also be an effective response against divisive policies that threaten the social fabric of societies. Plummer shared, 

“Meaningful youth engagement has the potential to bring about a new reality.  It is not just a ‘tick box’ exercise. When carried out in a meaningful way, with the belief that young people are protagonists of change, it can light a spark of hope for young people and inspire them to believe that their life can create positive change. That in itself is so powerful, and very important.”

Plummer’s remarks, and the SGI youth initiatives she described, offered an actionable approach to achieving the Forum’s goal of strengthening social bonds globally amidst challenging environmental changes, such as those caused by climate change.