The youth exchange 'EU is U' was designed to respond to a growing need within European youth work: supporting young people in understanding their role in democratic life, strengthening their sense of belonging to the European project, and equipping them with the competences required to participate meaningfully in civic processes. Implemented shortly after the 2024 European Elections, the project offered a timely opportunity to reflect on the lessons emerging from the electoral cycle, particularly the low participation of first‑time voters and the widespread perception among young people that their voice carries limited influence in shaping European policies. By bringing together 56 young people from 7 EU countries, the project aimed to create a learning space where participants could explore European citizenship, democratic values, diversity, tolerance, respect, equality and the functioning of EU institutions through experiential, youth‑friendly and inclusive methods. The project sought to address several challenges identified in recent Eurostat and Eurobarometer findings, which show that young Europeans often feel disconnected from institutional politics and lack confidence in their knowledge of EU mechanisms. Many report limited opportunities to engage directly with decision‑makers or to participate in structured dialogue processes. At the same time, the rise of misinformation, polarisation and anti‑EU narratives has created an environment where young people may feel uncertain about their place in Europe’s future. Youth organisations across Europe have highlighted the need for initiatives that strengthen critical thinking, media literacy, intercultural understanding and democratic participation. 'EU is U' was developed precisely to respond to these needs within a non‑formal learning framework aligned with the Erasmus+ priorities. The project’s objectives were shaped by youth work practice and the realities faced by youth organisations. A central aim was to empower participants to recognise themselves as active citizens capable of influencing their communities. The project encouraged them to explore the civil, social and political dimensions of citizenship, understand the rights and responsibilities associated with EU membership, and reflect on how democratic participation can be strengthened at local and European levels. Participants engaged in structured activities that deepened their understanding of European values such as solidarity, respect for diversity, human dignity and equality. They also examined the role of youth work in promoting participation and inclusion, recognising how youth organisations can act as bridges between young people and democratic institutions. A key component of the project was the simulation of EU institutions and decision‑making processes. These activities enabled participants to experience the complexity of policy formation, negotiate with peers from different cultural backgrounds and articulate their positions on issues relevant to young Europeans. Study visits, meetings with policymakers and interactive workshops supported the development of critical thinking, communication and teamwork skills. The project also placed strong emphasis on intercultural dialogue, encouraging participants to explore the richness of European diversity and challenge stereotypes that often hinder cooperation among young people from different countries. The project aimed to strengthen participants’ confidence in expressing their views publicly and engaging with democratic structures. By analysing the outcomes of the 2024 European Elections, participants reflected on the factors influencing youth turnout, the role of digital communication in shaping political opinions and the importance of reliable information sources. They explored how youth can contribute to more inclusive and participatory democratic processes and how they can act as multipliers within their communities. The project also supported the development of Youthpass competences, helping participants recognise their learning achievements and link them to future educational or professional pathways. Youth exchange 'EU is U' aimed to cultivate a generation of young Europeans who feel connected to the European project, understand the mechanisms that shape their daily lives and are motivated to contribute to a more democratic, inclusive and resilient Europe. By combining non‑formal learning, intercultural exchange and direct engagement with EU‑related themes, the project strengthened participants’ capacity to act as informed citizens and active contributors to their societies.