Resistance and Change at the European Tolerance Forum 2026

The European Tolerance Forum 2026 in Fresach stands for something that has become rare today: genuine dialogue. Different perspectives, controversial viewpoints, critical reflection, and the willingness to listen to one another.

As part of the Economic Forum, Angelika Kiessling-Kranzelmayer, Member of the Executive Board and Head of International Recruiting & Integration at Pendl Piswanger, joined Psychotherapist and Theologian Arnold Mettnitzer in discussing the dynamic between resistance and change within organizations. The discussion was moderated by Thomas Cik.

At the heart of her contribution was a key insight:
“Resistance is not the opposite of responsibility. More often than not, it is its first expression.”
Especially during periods of transformation, it becomes clear how important it is to take different perspectives seriously. Organizations that recognize resistance early and address it constructively lay the foundation for sustainable development and responsible leadership.

Watch the recording here (panel discussion starts at minute 32): Economic Forum: Resistance and Change

Beyond the Economic Forum, the European Tolerance Forum offered many other valuable insights. Particularly inspiring were the moving opening speech by Doron Rabinovici, the discussion between Michael Paul and Martin Andree on digital monopolies and liability issues, and the perspectives presented on the rights of nature.

The European Tolerance Forum 2026 demonstrated impressively how valuable spaces for open exchange and nuanced thinking are—especially in a time often characterized by simplification and polarization.

Pendl Piswanger would like to thank Denk.Raum.Fresach for the invitation and the opportunity to be part of this unique dialogue format.