Project Overview
Project Reference: 2022-3-IT03-KA154-YOU-000094481
Status: Completed
Duration: May 2, 2023 – January 1, 2025
EU Grant: €59,917
Programme: Erasmus+
Action Type: Youth Participation Activities
Countries Involved: Italy, Latvia, Spain, Greece, Bulgaria
This Erasmus+ project brought together young people and policy-makers to work on building better ways for youth to take part in European democratic life. With support from the EU, the project created a unique opportunity for digital engagement and cross-border collaboration.
Background
In today’s world, many young people feel excluded from political decisions that affect their lives. They may not trust institutions, or they might not know how to get involved. This problem is even bigger for youth from rural areas or with fewer social opportunities. The YOU(th)NET project was developed in response to this challenge. It aimed to reduce the gap between young people and decision-makers, using technology and inclusive learning methods to build a sense of connection and active citizenship across Europe.
Objectives
The project had several important objectives. One was to help young people build the digital skills needed to participate fully in modern civic life. It also aimed to strengthen their confidence and knowledge to take part in public discussions, vote, and influence decisions. The project encouraged youth and policy-makers to meet, talk, and understand each other better. Another key goal was to create safe online spaces where young people could exchange ideas, publish content, and join in policy-making discussions. All activities focused on fairness, inclusion, and empowerment of youth voices.
Implementation
The implementation of the project was based on non-formal education principles. A total of 60 young people and 15 policy-makers from five different countries were involved. Activities took place both online and in person to make sure everyone could participate, no matter where they lived. The participants were selected to represent a diverse group, including those from minority communities, second-generation migrants, and rural areas. All participants took part in practical sessions and discussions where their opinions mattered. They worked side by side to explore real-life challenges and design creative solutions.
Key Activities
One of the core elements of the project was the “Competence Gyms”—local training sessions where young people practiced digital and communication skills. These included using social media responsibly, identifying fake news, and expressing opinions clearly in online discussions. Another key component was the “ParticipationLABs”—online workshops that connected youth and policy-makers to explore models of democratic involvement. The project also organised mobility exchanges and a final event called BarCamp. This was a digital and physical gathering where participants shared their ideas, gave feedback, and launched a virtual Think Tank—a long-term platform for ongoing youth participation.
Impact
YOU(th)NET had a long-lasting impact on individuals, institutions, and communities. Young participants became more active in civic life, with stronger skills and a better understanding of their rights and responsibilities. Policy-makers learned how to listen to youth and include them in decision-making in a more open and effective way. Partner organisations developed new methods for hybrid learning and digital participation that they can now use in other projects. The project also created a strong network of youth and adults across Europe who are committed to working together toward a more inclusive, democratic future.
Results
The project produced strong and meaningful results. Participants gained new skills in digital literacy, collaboration, and political engagement. They also became more confident in expressing their views and proposing changes. The Think Tank created during the project became a powerful digital space where young people and policy-makers could continue their dialogue after the project ended. A formal Agreement was written, stating shared goals and strategies to support youth inclusion in policy-making. This Agreement was translated into all partner languages and will be used as a reference document in future initiatives.
