Within the framework of the project, Id20 Institute was joined by the ATPERSON (Spain), INI-Novation (Germany), and Udruga Prizma (Croatia). All partners operate in the areas facing youth outmigration. Throughout the project, we explored the field of digital nomadism and identified to what extent it can be linked to the field of youth work in the countryside. By reviewing good practices, we found out positive examples in Europe that can serve as a model for other areas. We believe that the countryside is suitable not only for retaining young people but also for attracting digital nomads (and other urban residents). In the project, we particularly wanted to highlight the regions in which we primarily operate – Idrija, Cuenca, Bergstrasse-Odenwald, Iž, and Gračac. The project focused on the stories of young people, as they are the ones who connect and make a place interesting for living.
The European countryside is facing the challenge of youth emigration, which is a consequence of a lack of employment and educational opportunities. However, especially after the COVID crisis, a new trend is emerging: remote work. Thus, on a global scale, the number of younger digital nomads, who are rediscovering the countryside, is increasing. Digital nomadism can be a positive example for the countryside, as it contributes to the immigration of young people to the countryside in a short term. In fact, 42% of digital nomads are aged between 25 and 42 years. New solutions are also needed for youth work in the countryside. Youth work is often associated with urban areas, whereas the countryside requires different solutions – interdisciplinary and inclusive. The project was related to the European Youth Goals, especially the sixth goal, A Step Forward for Rural Youth, which highlights a positive image of the countryside and more opportunities for young people.