Project Information
Project Reference: 2023-1-CZ01-KA153-YOU-000124651
Status: Completed
Duration: October 2023 – April 2024
EU Grant: €25,064
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Mobility of Youth Workers
Countries Involved: Czech Republic, Romania, Greece, Germany, Croatia, Poland, Bulgaria
Project Background
Building Bridges was created to promote tolerance, respect, cooperation, and mutual understanding among people from different backgrounds. The project focused on finding peaceful ways to overcome conflicts and strengthen relationships within communities, organisations, and youth groups.
The partnership chose Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as the main learning approach. NVC helps people understand the feelings and needs behind behaviour and encourages dialogue based on empathy instead of conflict.
Project Objectives
The main objective was to equip youth workers with practical communication skills that they could use in their daily work with young people. Participants learned how to manage conflicts, encourage empathy, and create solutions that meet the needs of everyone involved.
The project also aimed to promote cooperation instead of competition, strengthen democratic values, and introduce participants to methods of critical pedagogy, including the Theatre of the Oppressed and the Futuropolis method.
Project Implementation
The project was delivered through an eight-day international training course held at the Kaprálův mlýn Environmental Education Centre near Brno, Czech Republic, from 28 January to 4 February 2024.
The training brought together 28 participants, including trainers, from seven European countries. The group included youth workers, trainers, teachers, educators, volunteers, and social workers who support young people in different learning environments.
Key Activities
Participants explored the principles and history of Nonviolent Communication through interactive workshops, practical exercises, group discussions, and role-playing activities. They learned to recognise emotions and needs, improve active listening, and communicate more effectively in difficult situations.
The programme also introduced innovative educational methods that encourage critical thinking, social responsibility, and peaceful conflict resolution. These activities helped participants strengthen both their professional and personal competences.
Project Results
The training significantly improved participants’ communication and facilitation skills. They developed a deeper understanding of empathy and became more confident in identifying the needs behind people’s actions and opinions.
Participants also gained practical strategies for handling misunderstandings, reducing conflicts, and supporting constructive dialogue among young people. These skills can now be applied in youth organisations, schools, and community projects.
Impact on Participants and Organisations
The project strengthened the capacity of youth workers to create safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environments. By applying Nonviolent Communication in their daily work, participants can better support young people facing conflicts or social challenges.
The partnership also built stronger international cooperation, creating opportunities for organisations to exchange methods, share good practices, and continue promoting peaceful communication across Europe.
Long-Term Impact
Building Bridges demonstrated that empathy and effective communication are essential for stronger communities and active citizenship. By empowering youth workers with practical tools and innovative educational methods, the project contributed to more inclusive youth work and lasting positive social change.
The knowledge and experience gained during the training will continue to benefit young people and youth organisations, helping them build stronger relationships based on respect, understanding, and cooperation.
