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European Capitals 1.1

2023-1-AT01-KA155-YOU-0001494192023Discover EU inclusion actionfinalized
Countries: AT · Grant: €6,380

Objectives

Our primary aim was to empower a group of disadvantaged young people to gain firsthand experience of Europe in ways they had never known before. Many of these participants had limited opportunities to travel or engage in intercultural dialogue due to financial or social barriers. As a result, they often held narrow perceptions of other countries and cultures, and they lacked a clear understanding of how the European Union could be relevant to their own lives. By implementing this project, we sought to widen their horizons and enable them to discover Europe beyond the constraints they typically face. We believed that visiting various European destinations, meeting local peers and youth organizations, and tackling simple, hands-on tasks would not only strengthen their self-confidence but also inspire them to see themselves as active members of society. Ultimately, our intent was to break cycles of exclusion by promoting personal growth, mutual respect, and European citizenship. Concretely, our objectives were: Foster Intercultural Awareness Through small-group travel and direct encounters with different cultures, participants would move beyond stereotypes, foster open-mindedness, and develop a deeper appreciation for Europe’s diversity. Promote Active Citizenship By meeting local stakeholders (e.g., youth clubs, community centers, NGOs) in each destination, the young people would learn how civic engagement functions in different European settings and gain practical insight into democratic processes. Support Personal and Social Development The project provided structured opportunities for self-reflection through daily group discussions and the Youthpass process. We wanted participants to build life skills, such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication, and to realize that their voices matter. Enhance Digital Competences and Travel Skills Participants took charge of organizing travel routes, accommodations, and budgeting. They also documented their experiences on digital platforms, learning to interact responsibly online and manage practical details with greater autonomy. Overall, our vision was to create conditions in which these young people could break free from socially or economically constrained mindsets, realize new possibilities, and gain self-efficacy in shaping their own futures within a broader European context. By exposing them to other ways of life and offering a supportive framework, we hoped to spark lasting motivation for further learning, collaboration, and social participation.

Project partners (1)