Welcome to the Cult Open Study

Following the conclusion of the "CULT OPEN" project, the survey has continued as an independent research initiative. Its goal is to address significant gaps in current research by focusing on Eastern European countries, a region historically underrepresented in studies of intercultural dynamics. Through the systematic collection and analysis of data from a growing number of countries, the survey aims to generate valuable insights into how identity and cultural competence intersect with attitudes and prejudice across diverse European societies.

The central research question of the study is whether classical findings from psychological research on the relationships between identity, intercultural competence, and prejudice can be generalized across Europe when Eastern European perspectives are taken into account.

Additional questions include how people in Europe perceive and shape their own identity in a multicultural context, what skills and attitudes enable effective and respectful interaction between individuals of different cultural backgrounds in Europe, and what underlying factors influence attitudes toward diversity as a central component of the European ideal.

Current Scope and Progress

• Data Collection: We currently have extensive datasets from six countries and are actively collaborating with partners in eight additional countries to expand the scope of our research.
• Publication of Results: One open-access publication is available, and two additional publications are in the process of being published. Access and related publications can be found here.

Why This Research Matters

Intercultural competence and diversity are crucial in today’s interconnected world, especially as migration reshapes societal structures. Research from the Cult Open Study contributes to a deeper understanding of these complex dynamics, providing evidence-based insights for policymakers, the education sector, and the economy.

Collaboration and Future Goals

We welcome collaborations with researchers, institutions, and organizations interested in advancing intercultural research. By expanding our network, we aim to:

• Broaden our datasets to include additional countries and regions.
• Develop comparative analyses that provide a more comprehensive picture of intercultural competence and prejudice across Europe.
• Disseminate findings through publications, conferences, and workshops to foster academic and practical dialogue.

We invite you to explore our findings, learn more about our methodology, and join us in fostering a Europe that values and understands its rich diversity. Further information on our methodology can be found here, and details on how to participate are available here.

The Cult Open Survey is a unique initiative dedicated to exploring identity, intercultural competence, and prejudice across Europe, with a special emphasis on understanding these phenomena in Eastern European contexts. The study is carried out by the Competence Center for Global Competence at the UAS Osnabrück. This survey originated from the larger "CULT OPEN" project, which was focused on diversity and intercultural competence in the integration of immigrants. Originally conceived as a multicultural collaboration among Germany, the Czech Republic, Latvia, Serbia, Hungary, and Slovakia, the project laid the groundwork for ongoing academic inquiry into these critical topics.

Mission and Fields of Action

The Competence Center for Global Competence is dedicated to bridging the gap between research and practice by fostering collaboration, understanding, and innovation across diverse fields. Our mission is rooted in four key areas of action, each designed to address critical needs in the realms of research, networking, public engagement, and professional consultation. Below, we outline these fields and their significance in advancing intercultural competence and diversity.

1. Research

At the core of the Center’s mission is a commitment to conducting high-quality, impactful research. We focus on both foundational and applied studies in areas such as diversity management, intercultural competence diagnostics, and migration and integration. By employing rigorous methodologies and collaborating with international partners, our research aims to provide actionable insights that address real-world challenges while contributing to academic discourse. Central achievements in this area are the development and validation of the Cult Euro 1 Test as well as the Project "Profile building through Diversity Management (PDM)", investigating Diversity Mangement in private and public universities in Germany.

2. Networking: Connecting Researchers and Practitioners

We serve as a hub for fostering meaningful connections between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The Center facilitates multidisciplinary collaboration, enabling the exchange of ideas and best practices. Through conferences, workshops, and targeted initiatives, we bring together experts from academia, the public sector, and industry to address pressing issues and develop innovative solutions that bridge the gap between theory and practice. More information on our network-projects can be found here. Moreover, Prof. Dr. Genkova is vice head of the COST Action 21107 Work inequalities in later life redefined by digitalization (DIGI-net), building and consolidating networks all over Europe.

3. Transfer of Research with Citizens

Engaging the public is a cornerstone of our approach. We are dedicated to making research accessible and relevant by creating opportunities for dialogue and participation. Through outreach programs and public discussions, the Center translates complex research findings into practical knowledge that empowers communities and fosters a deeper understanding of intercultural dynamics. For mor information on our activities in this area, see the our project "Diversity Discussions".

4. Counseling for the Business and Public Sector

The Center provides tailored consulting services to businesses and public sector organizations, helping them navigate the complexities of diversity and intercultural communication. By leveraging our research expertise, we offer practical solutions for optimizing organizational processes, reducing barriers, and harnessing the benefits of cultural diversity. Our goal is to enable organizations to achieve sustainable success by fostering inclusivity and resilience. If you are interested in our services, you wil find an overview of services and competences provided here.