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SAFE: Strengthening Awareness on Freedom in the E-world

2025-3-IT03-KA152-YOU-0003803322025Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: IT|EL|ES|PT|RO · Grant: €32,070
Digital safetyPromoting gender equalityEuropean identity and values

Objectives

In our previous youth projects (Creative Emotional Journey, S.H.O.W. Respect, Gender Bias) we explored gender equality, gender bias and gender-based violence (GBV). Those experiences confirmed the importance of creating safe spaces where young people can reflect on these issues, but they also revealed new and urgent challenges that require a dedicated focus. One of these is the rapid growth of digital gender-based violence (GBV), particularly among young people. Phenomena such as revenge porn, sexting without consent and sexual harassment on social media are spreading quickly, yet there is still no common EU definition or legislative framework to address them effectively. Our project strongly aligns with the key objectives of the Erasmus+ programme and Youth Exchanges, EU Youth Goal #2 Equality of All Genders, the EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027, but also the Digital Priority, by promoting inclusion, intercultural dialogue, active citizenship, creativity, digital awareness and lifelong learning. By addressing gender violence and promoting equality through non-formal education, we will equip young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to challenge stereotypes, reduce risks and raise awareness about digital implications of gender based violence, contributing to a more inclusive society and engage in active and responsible European (digital) citizenship. The project not only strengthens our long-term commitment to gender equality but also responds to emerging forms of violence that young people face today. Issues and Needs Addressed 1.Rise of Digital GBV The spread of revenge porn, non-consensual sexting, online harassment, deep fake and cyberbullying highlights how technology is amplifying forms of GBV. Many young people are unaware of the long-term emotional, social and legal consequences of these actions. This project will raise awareness on these phenomena and promote safer digital practices. 2.Lack of Knowledge on Consent and Affectivity Youngsters often experiment with their identity and sexuality without adequate guidance. Sexting, for example, can be a way of exploring intimacy, but without proper awareness it can easily expose to risks. There is a need to strengthen education on consent, affectivity and respect in both offline and online relationships, empowering young people to make informed choices. 3.Cultural and Legal Gaps Across EU Different EU countries tackle GBV and digital crimes in different ways. Some have strong legislation, while others lack clear definitions or procedures for new phenomena like revenge porn especially if we include the deep fake. Intercultural dialogue will allow participants to compare these realities and share effective practices across borders. 4.Intersectionality and Vulnerable Groups Digital GBV does not affect all young people equally. YPFO, due to disability, migrant background, sexual orientation, or socio-economic barriers, often face compounded risks and have less access to protection or support. Addressing intersectionality is crucial for ensuring inclusion. 5.Need for Creative and Safe Spaces Many young people lack environments where they can openly discuss sensitive issues like sexuality, consent and violence. Creative expression through theatre, storytelling, or digital tools provides a safe and powerful way to process experiences and propose solutions. This project will create such spaces and equip participants with innovative tools to raise awareness in their communities. Objectives 1.Raise Awareness on Digital GBV Through workshops, simulations and intercultural dialogue, participants will explore how online violence (revenge porn, sexting without consent, harassment) affects young people and how it can be prevented. 2.Promote Education on Consent, Respect and Digital Responsibility The project will provide young people with knowledge and skills to make conscious choices about intimacy and online behavior, highlighting the emotional, psychological and legal consequences of harmful actions. 3.Foster Intercultural Dialogue and Exchange of Practices Participants from different cultural and legal contexts will compare how their countries address GBV and digital crimes, learning from successful methods and reflecting on how cultural norms influence both problems and solutions. 4.Empower Young People through Creativity and Digital Tools Using theatre, video-making, digital storytelling, participants will transform their reflections into artistic and educational outputs that raise awareness among peers and wider communities. 5.Build a Network for Ongoing Action Create a collaborative network of young people and youth workers committed to tackling GBV and digital violence. Participants will co-develop ideas for future initiatives and campaigns that continue beyond the project.

Project partners (5)