A Transformative Initiative
Project Reference: 2023-2-BE05-KA154-YOU-000168373
Project Status: Completed
Start Date: 01-08-2023
End Date: 31-05-2024
EU Grant: €57,380
Programme: Erasmus+
Key Action: Learning Mobility of Individuals
Action Type: Youth Participation Activities
Countries Covered: 27
Topics: Awareness about the European Union, Democracy and inclusive democratic participation, Policy dialogue with decision-makers
The Vision: A Platform for Youth Engagement
The Ghent 2024 International Forum was designed to empower young people from across Europe by engaging them in policy-making, fostering dialogue with decision-makers, and enhancing their participation in society. The event followed a parliamentary model, mirroring the structure and procedures of the European Parliament, allowing 186 young participants from over 25 countries to contribute meaningfully to discussions on European Youth Goals.
The project was guided by the theme “Confluence Shapes Change”, amplifying young voices and addressing the critical need for platforms where youth can actively participate in shaping their future. By focusing on Youth Goal (YG) 3 – Inclusive Societies, in alignment with the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU, the initiative also contributed to YG 4 – Information & Constructive Dialogue and YG 9 – Space and Participation for All.
Project Objectives: Engage, Connect, Empower
1. Engage
The forum aimed to educate participants about the European Union, democracy, and active citizenship through:
- Knowledge on the EU (YG 1): Providing insights into European institutions to strengthen trust in the EU.
- Intercultural Understanding (YG 3): Encouraging solidarity and tolerance through dialogue.
- Constructive Dialogue (YG 4): Teaching the value of respectful, non-violent communication.
- Active Citizenship (YG 4): Raising awareness of societal challenges and civic responsibilities.
- Citizenship Education (YG 8): Offering knowledge on political systems, democracy, and human rights.
- Encouraging Action (YG 9): Inspiring participants to address social issues in their communities.
- Volunteering Opportunities (YG 9): Promoting civic engagement through the EYP network.
2. Connect
The project facilitated meaningful interactions by:
- Enabling Dialogue (YG 1): Creating opportunities for young people to engage with decision-makers.
- Linking Participants with Ghent (YG 3): Encouraging local cultural exchanges and connections.
3. Empower
The initiative provided tools for personal and professional growth by:
- Strengthening Youth Rights (YG 3): Addressing obstacles to social cohesion and discrimination.
- Enhancing Employability (YG 7): Developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and public speaking skills.
- Boosting Confidence (YG 9): Encouraging youth to take leadership roles in society.
- Language Skills (YG 8): Fostering proficiency in English through an immersive experience.
Implementation: Key Events and Activities
1. Steering Group Weekend in Barcelona
Seven representatives from EYP Belgium, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, UK, Luxembourg, and Norway planned and coordinated the event, leveraging their experience in youth-led projects across Europe.
2. International Forum in Ghent
Over eight days, 186 young participants engaged in various activities, including:
- Opening Ceremony: Hosted at Ghent City Hall with speeches from European Youth Parliament representatives and Belgian political leaders.
- Team Building: Activities designed to foster communication, collaboration, and trust.
- Committee Work: Developing policy recommendations on European Youth Goals through research and discussions.
- Panel Debate: Young political candidates debated youth representation and key EU issues.
- Expert Talks: Discussions with specialists in mental health, media freedom, youth employment, and political participation.
- Eurovillage & Euroconcert: Cultural exchanges showcasing traditions, music, and performances.
- Project Fair: Presentation of practical solutions to local and European challenges.
- General Assembly: A parliamentary-style session where resolutions were debated and voted upon.
Results: A Lasting Impact
The Ghent 2024 International Forum successfully created a space for young Europeans to engage, connect, and empower one another. The project:
- Increased knowledge about the EU and democratic processes.
- Strengthened civic engagement and active participation in decision-making.
- Developed critical skills necessary for employability and leadership.
- Encouraged cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
- Provided tangible policy recommendations addressing key European youth issues.
The initiative’s resolutions were shared with decision-makers, ensuring that young voices contributed directly to European policies. Additionally, media outreach, social media campaigns, and an aftermovie extended the project’s impact beyond the event itself.
Conclusion: A Model for Youth Participation
The Ghent 2024 International Forum stands as a testament to the power of youth engagement in shaping Europe’s future. By creating an inclusive and dynamic platform for discussion, learning, and collaboration, the project has set a precedent for future initiatives aimed at strengthening youth participation in democracy.
For more information, visit the project’s website and follow its continued impact through social media channels.
