Study Finds Tolerance of Marginalised Groups Boosts Reconciliation in Divided Societies

A new analysis of social survey data from Bosnia‑Herzegovina, Cyprus, Moldova and Ukraine shows that higher tolerance toward immigrants, Jews, LGBTQ+ people and Roma communities is linked to more positive attitudes toward conflict‑related outgroups. The research, part of the Social Cohesion and Reconciliation Index (SCORE), tested whether acceptance of non‑conflict groups predicts better intergroup relations even when direct contact between conflict parties is limited. Results confirm the hypothesis that social inclusion can indirectly strengthen reconciliation across conflict divides. The findings offer peacebuilding practitioners an evidence‑based strategy that leverages broader social tolerance to foster harmony in societies where direct contact is constrained. The study also provides data useful for EU stakeholders working on social cohesion and stabilization at the EU’s borders.