Voices of the Next Generation - First Edition, Czechia and Belgium
In April 2024, the inaugural youth exchange of the "Voices of the Next Generation: Future Decision-Makers on European Values and Citizenship" took place in the Czech Republic. This remarkable event is part of the Erasmus+ KA3 project, which will feature a series of youth exchanges throughout 2024 and 2025, culminating in a final conference. Organised by the Czech partner, Cesta rozvoje, the event brought together 30 young participants from various European countries, including Germany, Italy, Romania, Spain, and Estonia.
Participants engaged in an enriching 10-day program that combined learning with fun and cultural exchange. They kicked off the exchange by building team spirit through energizing activities and intercultural evenings. The focus then shifted to critical discussions and creative expressions, with workshops on debate, humor, and theater helping participants explore and articulate their views on European values and citizenship.
A highlight of the program was a simulated European Parliament session, where participants embodied different political parties, debated issues, and developed policy proposals on human rights. This hands-on approach not only deepened their understanding of the EU’s workings but also empowered them to think critically about real-world issues.
The exchange culminated in a visit to Brussels, where participants toured the European Parliament and the European Commission. They learned about opportunities such as the EC Blue Book traineeship and Discover EU project, gaining insight into how young people can actively engage with and influence EU institutions.
The success and impact of the Czech Republic exchange set a high bar, and now, the journey continues. The next youth exchange will take place in Estonia in July 2024, offering another transformative experience for Europe's future decision-makers.
During the exchange, participants created a comprehensive collection of policy proposals, a culminating effort from the spirited and insightful participants of the first Youth Exchange under the KA3 European Youth Together project called “Voices of the Next Generation.” This booklet represents a tangible outcome of the dynamic and interactive learning experience that took place in the Czech Republic and Belgium, focusing on a core theme that resonates deeply across all corners of the European Union—Human Rights.
During this Youth Exchange, thirty young individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds came together with a common purpose: to delve into the European Union's legislative processes and the pivotal role of human rights within these frameworks. The program was designed to empower participants with a profound understanding of the EU’s operational dynamics and inspire them to engage actively in its democratic processes.
The policy proposals featured in this booklet are the result of intensive workshops where participants were divided into five key committees, each addressing a different aspect of human rights:
- Culture and Education
- Women's Rights and Gender Equality
- Digital Affairs
- Environment and Public Health
- International Relations
We invite you to explore these pages to understand the depth of analysis and the commitment to human rights that our young participants have demonstrated. Their proposals are a call to action for all of us to consider and integrate as we move forward in our continuous quest to uphold and expand human rights within the European Union and beyond. Read our policy proposals here.
A short movie capturing the highlights of our youth exchange on European values and citizenship has been created, showcasing the passion and creativity of young leaders in action. Don't miss out on this visual storytelling of an unforgettable experience. Watch the movie here.
Thank you for joining us in celebrating the achievements of these remarkable individuals as we embarked on a journey to strengthen European democracy and tackle the challenge of disinformation. Together, we strive for a brighter, more informed, and united future for the European Union.
As we gear up for the upcoming EU elections, it's crucial for young voices to be heard. Participating in youth exchanges like ours not only prepares you to understand and influence European policies but also highlights the power of your vote in shaping the future of the EU.
The success and impact of the Czech Republic and Belgium exchange set a high bar, and now, the journey continues. The next youth exchange will take place in Estonia in July 2024, offering another transformative experience for Europe's future decision-makers. Follow our journey in Estonia and keep an eye out for the three exchanges and final conference yet to come.
By voting in the EU elections, you have the power to influence decisions on key issues like education, digital affairs, environmental policies, and human rights—topics that our youth exchanges deeply explore. Your vote is your voice in building a better Europe.
Although applications for the Estonia Youth Exchange Program in July are now closed, you can still be part of the journey! Follow our activities in Estonia to see how young leaders from across Europe are shaping the future of European values and citizenship.
Stay connected and keep your eyes open for the remaining exchanges and the final conference:
- Three more youth exchanges in different European countries.
- A grand final conference to showcase all the incredible work, projects, and initiatives developed throughout the project.
By following our journey, you'll gain insights into the experiences and outcomes of each exchange, learn from the innovative projects crafted by young participants, and be inspired to engage in European democratic processes.
Follow our partners on Social Media to stay updated on all upcoming events and opportunities:
Join us in this exciting journey and be part of the movement empowering the next generation of European leaders!
The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein. This project was co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.