The project “We matter” versed about youth participation in democracy, where youngsters from five different countries will learn together how to become an influential part of the decision-making process of their communities in this exchange in the beautiful town of Benicàssim, Spain.
Why did this project matter?
Democracy is not only the political system of the European Union. It is the very essence of European nations, and the basis of our societies. Support for democracy is precisely one of the few consensuses which has remained unchanged since the foundation of the Union. Today, democracy enjoys support unquestionable throughout Europe. But it is not something we should take for granted. According to Winter 2020/2021 Eurobarometer, 44% of Europeans are dissatisfied with the way democracy works. This fact has serious consequences in real life; data from the Democracy Index compiled by “The Economist” point to two EU member countries, Poland and Hungary, as those that have experienced the greatest decline in democratic practices and values in 2020.
Our democracies have to deal with the rise of extremist political and social movements and with growing interference by foreign powers. All this while we adapt to the opportunities, but also to the risks, presented by long-term developments, such as new information and communication technologies, deep sociodemographic changes and the alteration of traditional value systems. In this context, it becomes imperative to take a moment to reflect on the meaning of democracy and how to preserve and improve it. That is especially necessary for young people, who make up a group that is often underrepresented in the decision-making process and which in many cases suffers additional disadvantages, such as worse conditions economy and high unemployment.
The intention of this project was to create a forum where democracy can be debated from a youth. Its specific objectives were:
- To clarify ideas about democracy, and to explore it key concepts.
- To foster debate about the type of democracy that young people want.
- To raise awareness about the dangers that threaten our democracies, especially those derived from the misinformation and populism.
- To provide youth with the knowledge, tools and attitudes necessary to become active actors and effective in their democracies.
What did we do?
During our youth exchange, we embarked on a journey to explore democracy through the lens of youth. The project aimed to foster a platform for democratic discourse and critical thinking, inviting participants to engage in discussions on key topics without an overload of descriptive language.
Our primary objectives were clear:
- Exploring the idea of democracy. We delved into the fundamental concepts of democracy. Participants engaged in thoughtful conversations, seeking to clarify their understanding of this complex system.
- A democracy for the youth. The project provided a space for young minds to discuss the type of democracy they envision. Participants shared their perspectives and insights, promoting open dialogue about the future of democratic governance.
- Threats and dangers. We raised awareness about the challenges that democracies face, with a particular focus on the dangers posed by misinformation and populism. Through candid conversations, participants gained a deeper understanding of these threats.
- Empowering Youth. Beyond discussions, the project aimed to equip young participants with the knowledge, tools, and attitudes required to be active and effective contributors to their democracies. Workshops and practical exercises provided valuable insights and skills.
The exchange was a forum for democratic engagement, offering participants the opportunity to learn, reflect, and engage with their peers from different backgrounds. Through open discussions, they clarified their ideas about democracy, actively debated its various facets, and contemplated the type of democracy that best serves the needs and aspirations of young people.
By addressing the challenges facing democracies, particularly the issues of misinformation and populism, participants gained a realistic view of the complexities involved in sustaining democratic principles. This awareness served as a powerful motivator for them to take an active role in safeguarding the democratic values they hold dear.
Ultimately, the project was not just about discussions; it was about empowerment. It equipped youth with the knowledge to navigate the intricacies of democracy, provided them with practical tools to engage effectively, and nurtured attitudes that promote active citizenship. As a result, participants left the exchange better prepared to be informed, engaged, and impactful contributors to their democratic societies.
