Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly present in young people’s daily lives: it supports learning, creativity, communication and can inspire new ways of self-expression. At the same time, international research warns about its risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the digital determinants of youth mental health, stressing that while digital tools can be empowering, they are also linked to rising levels of anxiety, social withdrawal and loneliness, particularly among vulnerable groups. The American Psychological Association (APA) warns about the phenomenon of simulated empathy: when chatbots or AI tools appear to “listen” to young people but cannot offer authentic emotional connection. This creates an illusion of support while deepening isolation. European research confirms these concerns. According to the EU-LS survey (Joint Research Centre, 2022), loneliness is widespread across the EU, with young people among the most affected groups. A 2024 study by Bertelsmann Stiftung found that 57% of Europeans aged 18–35 feel at least moderately lonely, underlining the urgency of addressing belonging and connection. Meanwhile, the Council of Europe’s Youth Department has also emphasized that young people must have a say in how AI shapes their rights, relationships, and well-being. These risks are not just theoretical — we have also experienced them firsthand. In our last international project, one participant completely isolated herself from the group and instead spent her free time talking exclusively with “Chaty,” her favourite chatbot, whom she described as her best friend. This left a deep impression on us and demonstrated in a very tangible way how simulated connection can replace real human bonds. After our very first planning meeting for this project, Facebook’s algorithm suggested an application called “AI boyfriend – who always loves you and is always available,” a disturbing sign of how normalised such artificial substitutes for human connection are becoming. We also consulted a clinical psychologist, who shared with us first-hand insights into the mechanisms of simulated empathy and how these interactions may worsen young people’s feelings of isolation. In addition, when reaching out for potential partner organisations, we received multiple replies in which youth organisations shared similar stories from their own communities, underlining just how timely and urgent this project is. The young people themselves helped to refine the topic ideas. For example, AI, loneliness and belonging appeared prominently and repeatedly at the idea level. Not responding to these risks could have serious consequences: young people's real community ties would weaken, and their isolation and feelings of loneliness would increase. This would have a direct impact on their mental health and could reduce their active participation in society in the longer term. Objectives of the youth exchange are: ● Raising awareness of the dual impact of Artificial Intelligence: recognising it as a tool for creativity and learning, while also addressing the risks of isolation and simulated empathy. ● Strengthening the sense of belonging and real human connection, counteracting loneliness through meaningful shared experiences. ● Developing young people’s soft skills and attitudes – such as empathy, emotional intelligence, self-expression, intercultural sensitivity, and critical digital literacy. ● Increasing resilience and adaptability by creating “aha-moments” and opportunities to reflect on personal and collective growth. ● Strengthening European belonging, encouraging participants to learn from cultural differences, build on similarities, and embrace European values of solidarity, tolerance and initiative. As a secondary goal, we would also like to mention: ● Fostering the entrepreneurial mindset and active citizenship of young people through creative problem-solving activities such as the „Hackathon light” and the „Council of Future”.