In this youth exchange, we had the chance to work with 30 youngsters from Spain, Lithuania, Greece, Romania, and Italy, to explore our common European culture and heritage and fight Euroscepticism.
Why did this project matter?
Nowadays, the construction of the European Union seems more threatened than ever. The EU has to cope with challenges from the exterior, such as terrorism and immigration, during a moment of great uncertainty in the interior. The political and economic wounds that resulted from the 2007-2008 economic crisis still haven’t healed, being its most evident consequence the rise of far-right parties all over Europe, including long and well established democracies such as France and Austria. The Euroscepticism and Europhobia reaches its peak with Brexit, a turning point in the European process since it’s the first time a country goes as far as to actually start the process of withdrawal.
In this context, it seems essential to remind the Europeans of our long history and rich common heritage, and the fact that the things that unite us are far more than those that divide us. Beyond political and economic considerations, the common culture and history are the glue that keeps the European peoples united. This project aims to increase awareness on the importance and strength of these bonds and to revalue our shared heritage. During the project, the participants will explore the different parts of the European culture from a dynamic and critic perspective, putting them in direct contact with our traditions and allowing them to notice the similarities between the different European peoples.
What did we do?
Our journey began with a dynamic exploration of the diverse cultures that form the tapestry of Europe. Through hands-on workshops and interactive discussions, we uncovered the common threads that unite us, transcending borders and languages. From tasting traditional delicacies to learning folk dances, we celebrated the rich tapestry of our shared heritage.
One of the highlights was our in-depth look into the European Union. Through insightful talks and workshops, we gained a clearer understanding of how this intricate institution functions, fostering collaboration and unity among nations. While we didn’t delve into exhaustive details, we grasped the significance of working together for a stronger Europe.
Open debates took us beyond the surface, allowing us to navigate complex topics with open minds and critical thinking. From the challenges of terrorism and immigration to the echoes of past economic crises, we explored the realities shaping Europe today. Our discussions weren’t just informative; they were opportunities to exchange viewpoints and cultivate empathy.
But it wasn’t all serious discussions. We got the chance to learn more about each others´cultures during our cultural evenings, where we showed others curiosities, traditional songs, dances, and artistic expressions, as well as flavors, unique to our homelands. These moments of creative exchange allowed us to discover the beauty in our differences and the power of our shared values.
Hosted in Benicàssim, Castellón, we experienced the daily life of the Mediterranean coast, immersing ourselves in its traditions and routines.
As we reflect on our time together, it’s clear that this exchange was a catalyst for deeper connections and lasting friendships. The activities we participated in went beyond the superficial—they allowed us to truly understand and appreciate the essence of European unity.
In the end, it was more than just an exchange of ideas; it was an exchange of hearts and minds. Through culture, history, and shared experiences, we came to realize that what binds us as Europeans is far stronger than what sets us apart. Our journey continues, fueled by the memories of these activities that will forever remind us of the strength of unity in our diverse continent.
