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Interfaith Journey

2025-1-HU01-KA152-YOU-0002984982025Mobility of young peoplefinalizedGood practice
Countries: HU|GE|ES|AM|IT · Grant: €25,972
Cultural heritageEuropean identity and values

Objectives

Prior to this youh exchange, an international survey carried out within this partnership showed that a significant number of organizations’ followers had never been involved in mobility projects before, barely know the Erasmus+ program (mostly recognizing the university-level option), with only a few having experienced traveling abroad and even fewer maintaining friendships or contacts internationally. Furthermore, a considerable portion of young members struggled with low self-esteem and self-confidence, use smartphone only for social networks and perceive religion as something very distant and detached from reality, admitting that religion is often seen as a source of discrimination among youngsters. Additionally, they lack international friendships, yet show a strong desire to learn new things, explore different places and connect with peers from other cultures. Many young people have a stereotypical idea of other cultures and religions, it also turns out that they are not very active in social life. It is significant that many young people in the survey declared themselves "disoriented" within society. The topic on religion has been choose becasue It was effective in responding to the current needs of young people and addressing global challenges related to cultural, religious and inter-community dialogue diversity (e.g. promoting mutual understanding, addressing intolerance and discrimination, promoting active citizenship and social participation and developing intercultural competences). The exchange was tailored taking in consideration these youngsters issue: - Need for belonging: The youngster here involved (around 60%) suffered from a lack of identity, without points of reference leading them to have a constant sense of confusion.They often search for a sense of belonging and identity. - Need for dialogue and discussion: they are increasingly aware of cultural differences but often do not have safe places to discuss complex issues such as religion ( declared by 70% of them in the survey). Creating spaces for dialogue is essential to foster respect and understanding. - 76% of them searching for positive role models: They needed concrete and positive examples of interreligious and intercultural dialogue. Involving influential figures such as religious leaders of different denominations can provide them with inspiration and role models. - Need to overcome barriers and prejudices: They often are influenced by stereotypes related to religion and culture (80% of them). – Self-confidence: 75% of them don't believe in their own abilities. The "interfaith journey" goals were: 1-Promote interfaith dialogue in an increasingly multi-ethnic and multi-religious European Union, creating a safe and inclusive space where participants can openly discuss religion and culture, challenging preconceptions and building bridges between different faiths, reducing stereotypes and prejudices; 2-Provide young people with soft skills for better human and professional growth (i.e self-esteem, empowerment, self awareness and personal responsibility); 3-Strengthen european citizenship by promoting a sense of belonging to the European Union, its fundamental values (freedom, democracy, fairness, rule of law and human rights) and become more active and involved in their local area also through their sending organizations; 4-Develop a more respectful attitude towards the environment (avoiding waste, reducing, reusing, recycling, promoting zero Km food and seasonal products); 5-Increase participants' digital dimensions; 6- Promote and better understand the youth mobility, non-formal learning and the opportunities for youngsters provided by European Union; 7- Foster new friendships and establish international connections.

Project partners (5)