IDEA Conference 2021: Cultural Embodiment
A workshop on Cultural Embodiment: from stereotypes towards empathy took place at the IDEA Virtual Conference 2021. It was a unique experience to facilitate this topic in a predominantly ‘Irish’ setting, and as a trainer, I feel very privileged to have this opportunity to share this topic with everyone present.
During the workshop we explored the general concept of embodiment and moved towards defining the concept of Cultural Embodiment (CE). In other words, through the sharing of personal stories and group discussion, we tried to understand the true nature of this concept and how we become aware of it. In a broad sense, Cultural Embodiment is described as an experience of the culture through our bodies. In different words Cultural Embodiment is all about understanding which part of our personal embodiment has been shaped by our cultures; understanding how cultures we belong to shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.
In the second part of the workshop, we tried to bring this concept to life, by creating an atmosphere where participants explored their own cultural embodiment. With the support of embodied learning principles, participants became aware of their cultural patterns and were supported in understanding how these link to their daily life. This personal exploration allowed for some deep sharing, many ‘a-ha’ moments and really understanding how this concept ‘lives’ in our body. For some, this only scratched the surface of understanding this part of their identities, but it has also sparked curiosity to explore newfound ideas further. For others, this exploration has resulted in finding a sense of meaning, a feeling of being grounded and broadening perspectives of how we observe ourselves. In the words of the participants: ‘Awareness of Cultural Embodiment is important to understand how our bodies are tools of expression and we can try and liberate ourselves from learned patterns’; ‘Awareness and recognition of CE builds empathy and curiosity’; ‘CE helped me to be more aware of my "irish-isms", and how to recognise and adjust when they counteract those of a different culture I am interacting with’. Other participants reflected on the connections between Development Education and Cultural Embodiment 'CE can be used to reflect and ensure your own facilitation style is inclusive and gives space for everyone to participate!', ' Culture impacts all we do - we don't give it much attention in GCE/DE'.
Based on participants' feedback, this experience enabled them to understand how our educational experiences are much deeper once we include the body in the learning context. On the other hand, this short workshop also allowed participants to bridge their learning with their work environments, therefore questioning how they perform certain roles and practices.
Teaching embodiment and using embodiment tools require a great sense of confidence and understanding. It also ‘demands’ great respect and responsibility, as working with the body can touch sensitive parts of our identity. This should not discourage anyone from trying to include the body in the learning process, but inspire you to do it with great sensitivity. First step in using embodiment is always self–awareness; once we are aware of ourselves, understanding others becomes easier, this includes them and their needs. Therefore, it is enough to become and stay in the realm of self-awareness. Cultural Embodiment can prompt you to reflect on your own day-to-day activities, both in your personal and professional life, and can inspire you to try new things with a greater awareness. More awareness means having more choice in how we respond to people and actions, therefore supporting our adaptability. To take this further, we can also try to use the framework of Cultural Embodiment to understand other complex concepts, such as diversity, inclusion, equity, leadership, etc. These ideas can greatly support adaptation of our practices and activities, so everyone involved can benefit from them in a more holistic way.
From the perspective of trainer, if this workshop has empowered the participants to look at themselves in a new way and has inspired them to be more curious about other people, this is a giant leap towards forging a new path in the way we work with others.
This blog was written by Sandra Gojić
The Irish Development Education Association (IDEA) has joined a growing coalition of Irish civil society groups in endorsing a critical open letter, urging the Irish government to formally join the Hague Group and push for an end to the genocide of the Palestinian people. The appeal, initiated by IDEA members Comhlámh and Afri, demands that Ireland act decisively ahead of the Hague Group’s 20 September deadline, coinciding with the 80th UN General Assembly. Ireland has already sent a representative to participate in a recent Hague Group meeting, signalling its engagement with this urgent international initiative. However, civil society organisations stress that formal membership and full endorsement of the Group’s six measures is now essential if Ireland is to match its words with action. Halting arms transfers to Israel. Preventing military transit and servicing of vessels carrying such goods. Enforcing shipping controls, including penalties like de‑flagging. Reviewing public contracts to eliminate state support for occupation. Pursuing national or international investigations for serious international crimes. Enabling domestic prosecutions using international jurisdiction. The open letter outlines grave concerns over escalating atrocities in Gaza and the West Bank, including settler violence, land dispossession, home demolitions, and forced displacement. It points out that, while UN efforts have been blocked, the Hague Group offers an immediate and tangible path toward justice. For IDEA, the call is also about upholding the principles of Global Citizenship Education (GCE). At its core, GCE is an educational process that helps people of all ages understand global interdependence, think critically about injustice, and develop the skills to take meaningful action. It cultivates empathy, solidarity, and responsibility, encouraging learners to connect local and global struggles. Supporting the Hague Group is therefore not only a matter of foreign policy, but also an expression of Ireland’s commitment to educate for justice and to model these values in practice. Ireland has until 20 September to join the 13 countries that have already committed to six concrete pledges at the Hague Group summit. As the deadline approaches, this coalition is calling on all TDs and Senators to publicly back Ireland’s membership, advocate for the six pledges within government ranks, and ensure that formal commitment is secured before the UN General Assembly convenes. Find out more here.
Budget 2026: Investing in Global Citizenship Education is Investing in Global Solidarity “Ireland has received international recognition for its development education strategies… Without additional investment, we cannot seize the opportunity to turn development-aware children into development-aware adults.” - OECD DAC Peer Review of Ireland Read IDEA’s full Pre-Budget 2026 submission here For over half a century, Ireland has invested in Global Citizenship Education (GCE), enabling people across the island to explore complex issues such as climate justice, human rights, and equality - and to take informed action for a more just and sustainable world. Between 2021 and 2024, €33.6 million was invested in programmes reaching over 1.2 million people, helping to embed GCE across schools, communities, and other learning spaces. This investment has made Ireland a European and global leader in the field. But in today’s turbulent context - with rising disinformation, polarisation, climate emergencies, and deepening inequalities - the need for GCE has never been greater. As Minister of State for International Development and the Diaspora, Neale Richmond, told the IDEA Annual Conference in May 2025: “Now is the time to focus on the hard issues… These are among the greatest challenges of our time.” Why Now? Budget 2026 comes at a critical moment. Ireland is: Running out of time to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. Preparing a new national GCE strategy for the next five years. Operating in a global context where democratic values, human rights, and multilateral cooperation are under unprecedented strain. The OECD has commended Ireland’s strong GCE strategies but has also warned that without additional investment, we risk falling short on SDG Target 4.7 - ensuring all learners acquire the knowledge and skills to promote sustainable development. Our Key Budget 2026 Asks: Increase investment in GCE Move towards the widely recognised target of 3% of Official Development Assistance (ODA), using a cross-departmental approach and accounting for inflation. Current spending is 1.2% of ODA - far below the €26 million annually needed to reach the 3% target. Boost GCE/ESD funding under “ESD to 2030” Provide adequate and dedicated funding for projects led by organisations, schools, and higher education institutions to ensure the successful delivery of the Second National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development. Create dedicated GCE/ESD funding lines Integrate and resource GCE/ESD within the SDG National Implementation Plan, Climate Action Plan, and National Action Plan Against Racism, recognising that climate justice and anti-racism are core components of global citizenship. Increase Ireland’s ODA Commit to a €300 million increase in Budget 2026 to make tangible progress towards the UN target of spending 0.7% of GNI on ODA by 2030. Adopt Coalition 2030 recommendations Implement budget measures that ensure resources reach those furthest behind first, and align budget lines with specific SDG targets. Beyond Funding – Policy Coherence and Decent Work In addition to resourcing, GCE requires stronger coordination across government departments and better integration into policies, institutions, and networks. GCE practitioners must also have secure, decent working conditions in line with SDG 8, ensuring that expertise is retained within the sector. The Opportunity for Ireland Ireland is respected globally for its principled, values-based approach to international development. By investing in GCE now, we can: Strengthen civic trust, participation, and resilience in our society. Equip citizens to navigate complex global challenges. Ensure Ireland remains a strong, independent voice for justice, solidarity, and human rights on the world stage. Budget 2026 is our opportunity to protect the progress made, scale up impact, and deliver on our commitments. IDEA and our members are ready to work with Irish Aid and across government to ensure Ireland continues to lead with integrity, foresight, and global solidarity. _______________________________________________________ Read IDEA’s full Pre-Budget 2026 submission here to explore our recommendations in detail and see how, together, we can strengthen Global Citizenship Education in Ireland and beyond.
Catch-up on a Summer of Learning!
