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Democracy 2.0: Youth Voices in the Digital World

2025-1-CZ01-KA152-YOU-0003034092025Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: CZ|ES|IT|FR|PL|SK · Grant: €28,540
Democracy and inclusive democratic participationDigital skills and competencesYouth policy development

Objectives

Nowadays, one of the biggest challenges facing European democracy is the low rate of active political engagement and civic participation among the younger population. The rise of digital technology in the political landscape, such as online voting systems, e-petitions, and civic engagement apps, presents both opportunities and obstacles for youth involvement in democratic processes. Nevertheless, according to the Council of Europe consultative meeting on youth participation in digital governance in 2023, "... the realities of the internet look far more complex. And young people, the most active users of digital services, are often left out of the Internet Governance processes that influence so much of their lives" (link: https://www.coe.int/en/web/youth/digital-citizenship-and-young-people). The formal education system rarely equips youngsters with the digital skills needed to become active participants in shaping their communities and EU politics, such as digital literacy, critical thinking, online communication, and collaboration. We, as young people, feel the lack of accessible opportunities to develop these essential competencies, which hinders our ability to engage meaningfully in digital democratic processes. Therefore, through non-formal education methods, we will create a youth exchange - a platform to share knowledge on digital citizenship, active political participation, and civic engagement while promoting democratic values. Our role as a team of volunteers and youth activists is to help and guide our peers to become informed and empowered citizens who can navigate and shape the future of digital democracy. Our youth exchange aims to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed to actively participate in digital democracy and engage them in civic life through digital platforms. The objectives of the youth exchange are: - to promote youngsters' awareness of European values and the current state of affairs in the spheres of digital democracy, active participation, and civic engagement; - to empower youngsters with practical skills in digital technologies, enabling them to engage in digital political participation effectively; - to provide an interactive learning experience through a simulation of a multi-stakeholder conference that engages in dialogue on digital challenges, which include misinformation, lack of resources and skills, privacy concerns, etc.; - to develop a policy proposal focused on the enhancement of youth participation in digital democracy in the EU; - to promote intercultural learning through the space of knowledge and idea exchange. We believe that young people are a driving force for today's democracy. Through non-formal educational activities, we will create tools and platforms for young people to contribute to the democratic process in their countries and the EU, develop digital literacy skills, and lead local initiatives. Our youth exchange will promote the development of active and responsible citizens.

Project partners (6)