Project Overview
Project Reference: IT-31-E121-2013-R2
Status: Completed
Duration: August 2013 – January 2014
EU Grant: €30,195
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Youth Mobility
Countries Involved: Italy, plus 6 countries from Western Europe and former-Soviet or Warsaw Pact areas
Background
The “Acting Democracy” project was born from the need to bring together young people from different regions of Europe to reflect on democracy, participation, and the role of youth. The project aimed to create a safe space for dialogue between youth from Western Europe and countries with different democratic histories, especially from the former Soviet and Warsaw Pact areas.
Objectives
The project had several goals. It aimed to promote intercultural learning through non-formal methods, and to raise awareness about how democracy works in different countries and within European institutions. Another key objective was to encourage young people to actively participate in democratic life, including European Parliament elections. Participants were also encouraged to reflect on what makes a democratic process truly inclusive and fair.
Implementation
The project consisted of two main activities: a preparatory visit (APV) and a youth exchange. The youth exchange took place in Gandellino, Italy, from October 26 to November 6, and involved 40 young participants. The activities were based on non-formal education and especially used methods from the Theatre of the Oppressed, a form of interactive theatre used to discuss and challenge social issues.
Key Activities
Participants explored democracy and participation by designing and performing a public flash mob in Milan’s famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This creative event allowed them to share messages about civic engagement and democratic values. They also visited Milan’s Town Hall, where they learned how local democracy works in Italy. These experiences helped participants understand how democratic systems can differ across countries.
Results
Through the exchange, participants gained new knowledge about political systems, improved their communication and cooperation skills, and experienced what active citizenship means. The flash mob and other public activities raised awareness about youth participation not only among the group, but also in the wider community. The project also helped young people feel more confident in engaging with democracy at both local and European levels.
Impact
“Acting Democracy” encouraged young people to take a more active role in shaping their communities. It gave them tools to express themselves, understand differences, and promote democratic values. The experience also strengthened collaboration between youth organisations from various European countries, creating new connections and ideas for future cooperation in the field of active citizenship.
