The project Conferences of EYP CZ 2024-2025: EU in New Geopolitical Conditions consisted of 4 activities held throughout the course of a year of EYP CZ’s operation. It was organised with the goal of connecting young Europeans from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their engagement in democratic life, educating them and raising their awareness of current issues, especially those stemming from the new geopolitical conditions of the EU upon the EP elections and US presidential elections in 2024 and from the presidencies of the Council of the EU of Belgium and Poland, which took place before and during the project period. The project simultaneously focused on bolstering intercultural peer-to-peer dialogue, development of soft and communication skills vital for active participation in a democratic society, education about the EU and its institutions, and providing a platform for dialogue between the youth, professional experts, and decision-makers. The objectives defined for the project were as follows: A) To enhance young people’s soft skills and their ability to advocate for their opinions. Through carefully structured activities, participants were continuously encouraged to formulate and defend their opinions in front of their peers and in public debates. The conference setting provided an ideal environment for developing crucial soft skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, conflict resolution, and public speaking. Delegates were supported in stepping outside their comfort zones, especially when leading discussions, formulating their resolutions, and speaking during the General Assembly. These experiences strengthened their confidence and ability to communicate ideas persuasively and respectfully in a group setting. B) To facilitate discussions between young people and local, national and European decision-makers. The project provided several opportunities for direct interaction between participants and decision-makers at different levels of governance. These discussions took place in formats such as Expert Talks (consultations for students during committee work on their respective topics), Panel Debates, Roundtables and informal networking, enabling an open exchange of views. Participants were encouraged to ask questions, challenge perspectives, and offer their own ideas on current policy matters. This not only strengthened intergenerational dialogue but also empowered young people to see themselves as relevant stakeholders in shaping democratic societies. C) To increase young people’s knowledge about contemporary issues, especially in relation to the agenda of partner organisations’ (EYP Belgium and EYP Poland) countries’ presidencies in the Council of the EU and EU’s subsequent new geopolitical conditions. Throughout the project, participants engaged with topics linked to the Belgian and Polish EU Council Presidencies and reflected on how these agendas shape the broader European landscape. They were introduced to discussions about EU enlargement, defence cooperation, digital transformation and democratic resilience, as well as the EU’s role in the changing global order of the 2024 election year. Committee Work and Roundtables enabled participants to explore these themes in depth and to understand their relevance for national and European policymaking. The comparative aspect of learning from Belgian and Polish participants’ perspectives fostered a better understanding of the diversity of challenges and priorities across member states. D) To develop young people’s English language skills. As all events were conducted in English and were largely international, participants had the opportunity to improve their language skills in a natural and immersive setting over several days. From informal conversations to formal debate, they were exposed to a wide variety of vocabulary and language functions. The necessity to communicate complex ideas effectively under healthy stress encouraged growth in spoken fluency, argumentative writing and ability to quickly communicate ideas. For many participants, this represented a unique opportunity to use English actively and confidently outside of the classroom environment. E) To facilitate an environment where young people from diverse socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds can share their opinions and worldviews. Inclusivity remained one of the project’s guiding principles. Participants came from a wide range of backgrounds and regions, enriching the quality of discussions with diverse lived experiences. Committee Work and social activities were designed to foster openness, curiosity and mutual respect, allowing all voices to be heard. Special attention was given to creating a safe space where everyone could express their opinions freely. This diversity not only contributed to better understanding of European pluralism, but also helped build empathy and cross-cultural friendships among young people.