Social Inclusion and Exclusion in the Discourse of Selected Youth Organizations Operating in Poland
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/PBE.2026.008Keywords
inclusion, exclusion, youth organizations, non-formal education, civic education, qualitative researchAbstract
Objective: This study analyzed social inclusion and exclusion within Polish youth organizations, focusing on discourse and organizational practices. The article approaches youth organizations as spaces of non-formal education and civic learning, examining how inclusion and exclusion are constructed within educational and participatory practices addressed to young people. The study aimed to identify internal and external dimensions of inclusion/exclusion, understand influencing factors, and examine how language and structures reflect or conceal these practices.
Method: Qualitative content analysis was conducted on texts from four youth organizations affiliated with the Polish Council of Youth Organizations (PROM). Data included websites, social media, statutes, statements, and reports. Using Bendl, Fleischmann, and Schmidt’s framework (2024), the analysis examined linguistic expressions and organizational indicators related to inclusion/exclusion, focusing on values, participation, group identity, and openness.
Results: Organizations predominantly used inclusive language, with explicit references to exclusion being rare. Internal structures appeared generally open, though hierarchical elements could implicitly marginalize less active members. External practices addressed social issues broadly, but some activities and venues indicated potential symbolic exclusion, especially regarding membership restrictions and cultural accessibility.
Conclusions: Polish youth organizations promote inclusive ideals linguistically and structurally. The findings contribute to research on non-formal education, inclusive pedagogy, and civic education by demonstrating how organizational discourse shapes participation and belonging among young people
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Copyright (c) 2026 Celina Czech-Włodarczyk, Magdalena Cuprjak
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