The aim of this transnational project was to develop an innovative, intercultural approach to Relationship and Sexuality education (RSE). The partners wanted to create a validated educational framework and diversified tools (guides, multimedia resources, etc.) that take a positive and global view of sexuality, going beyond simple risk prevention. To do this, we wanted to explore in depth with professionals in the field the challenges of carrying out RSE projects in a multicultural environment. We wanted young people to have access to a RSE that dared to make visible and name the ways in which different social affiliations can give rise to discrimination in the area of intimacy and sexuality. We also wanted to create educational tools to help overcome or work on such discrimination, as well as stereotypes and prejudices in the area of intimacy. We also wanted to use radio as a creative and joyful teaching strategy to address these sensitive issues. Finally, we wanted to train RSE professionals and volunteers in how to integrate a critical intercultural approach into their work.
The partners of the Empowerment project submitted their application for this project because we had identified the need to develop an innovative intercultural RSHEE (Relationships, Sexuality, and Emotional Education) approach, addressing the relational, sexual, and emotional dimensions in a comprehensive and positive way. The objective was to train youth professionals in this approach, so that they could pass it on to the young people they support. We recognize the need for professionals in the youth, education, and health sectors to have the necessary knowledge and skills to address the sensitive topics of sexual and emotional well-being with young people. Indeed, many people working with young people may not feel sufficiently equipped or confident to address these topics, which can lead to potential gaps in their education and support.