The main objective of the “Be Active” project was to strengthen young people’s civic and political engagement and improve the quality of youth work. The project aimed to empower youth to become responsible, conscious citizens who understand their rights, values, and role in democratic society. Specific objectives were: – to develop young people’s social, civic, and leadership competences through non-formal learning and international cooperation; – to raise awareness of European values, democracy, and active citizenship; – to involve young people from different social backgrounds, especially those with fewer opportunities; – to provide youth workers with innovative tools and methods for civic education; – to create and test a Citizenship Education Guide supporting civic education in youth work. Through youth exchanges, local initiatives, and training activities, the project encouraged active participation, inclusion, and intercultural dialogue, contributing to stronger communities and more engaged European citizens.
We applied for the “Be Active” project to address the lack of civic and political engagement among young people and to improve the quality of youth work. Youth participation in democratic life remains low – only about 40% of young Europeans vote, and few are involved in civic initiatives. Many lack confidence, knowledge, and skills to take part in society. The main needs identified were: low civic engagement and awareness of democratic processes, absence of consistent civic education beyond schools, lack of social and civic competences such as communication, leadership, and teamwork, the need to include youth with fewer opportunities, and to strengthen youth workers’ professional skills and tools. The project met these needs by offering young people opportunities to join civic and social initiatives, developing a Citizenship Education Guide for youth workers, promoting active participation and intercultural dialogue through exchanges and local initiatives, and enhancing youth workers’ competences. Through “Be Active”, we aimed to empower young people to become active, responsible citizens capable of shaping their communities and contributing to Europe’s democratic life.