Project Information
Project Reference: 2023-3-PT02-KA210-YOU-000175820
Status: Completed | Duration: January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 | EU Grant: €60,000
Programme: Erasmus+ | Action Type: Small-Scale Partnerships in Youth
Countries Involved: Portugal, Greece, Lithuania, Slovakia, Italy
Background
The project Pathways to Active Democracy: Cultivating European Engagement Among Young People was created in response to the need for stronger democratic participation among youth. Many young people feel disconnected from European institutions and unsure of how they can contribute to political life. With the 2024 European Parliament elections approaching, it was crucial to raise awareness and give young people the tools to engage in democratic processes.
Objectives
The main goal of the project was to empower NGOs and youth leaders to better engage young people in active citizenship. It aimed to give youth workers the knowledge and methods to inspire participation in democracy and foster a strong sense of European identity and values. The project also sought to increase awareness of the European elections, highlighting the importance of each young person’s voice in shaping Europe’s future.
Implementation
The project lasted 18 months and was coordinated by Associação TDM Portugal, with partners from Greece, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Italy. Activities were designed to reach both youth workers and young participants directly. The project combined in-person events, online campaigns, and networking activities, ensuring that the results would be shared widely across Europe and adapted to local needs.
Key Activities
The program included a capacity-building training course for NGOs, five youth conferences, two online campaigns, and four webinars. A youth exchange held in November 2024 gave participants practical experience in intercultural dialogue and active citizenship. In addition, a networking event in February 2025 brought together 20 NGOs to exchange practices and build stronger cooperation. Two PDF guides were also created to support both youth workers and young people with practical tools.
Results
The project successfully strengthened the capacity of youth organizations and empowered youth leaders with new skills. The online campaigns and webinars reached wide audiences, spreading information about democracy and participation. The youth exchange and conferences provided safe spaces for young people to learn, share, and connect across borders. The two guides developed during the project now serve as long-term resources for NGOs and young people.
Impact
The project had a meaningful impact on both individuals and organizations. Young people became more aware of their role in democracy and more motivated to participate in the European Parliament elections. NGOs built stronger networks and improved their ability to reach local communities. By fostering a shared European identity and promoting inclusive participation, the project contributed to building a more engaged and democratic Europe.