With the project "The European Tree – Youth Shaping Europe", which will be implemented in 2026, Europabaum e.V. aims to create a space for encounter, exchange and shared values within the framework of an international Youth Exchange. From the perspective of youth work practice, the focus lies on fostering personal development, social participation and democratic awareness among young people. Europe is often perceived by young people as an abstract political or economic construct. One of the main objectives of the project is therefore to make Europe tangible as a shared living space shaped by diversity, mutual respect and common democratic values. The artistically designed European Tree serves as the central symbol and working tool of the project. It enables participants to creatively explore questions such as: What connects us in Europe? Which values form the foundation of our coexistence? How can diversity become part of a shared whole? From a youth work perspective, the project aims to empower young people to contribute their own experiences, opinions and cultural backgrounds while at the same time learning from different perspectives. Through joint artistic creation, moderated discussions and group processes, intercultural competences, empathy and dialogue skills are strengthened. Language barriers are reduced through shared activities, trust is built and friendships across borders are formed. Another key objective is the development of democratic competences. Young people experience participation, responsibility and co-determination in a very concrete way by being actively involved in the planning, design and implementation of the project. Discussions about values, social coexistence and personal responsibility foster critical thinking and the ability to develop and express one’s own viewpoints. In addition, the project supports the development of social and personal skills such as teamwork, self-efficacy, communication skills and creative expression. Working on the European Tree and accompanying creative and media-based activities allow young people to realise their own ideas and make their results visible to a wider public. Complementary community-building activities, living with host families and shared leisure activities promote informal learning, strengthen the sense of belonging and deepen intercultural exchange. The Youth Exchange targets young people aged approximately 14 to 20 from the partner cities of Donzdorf (Germany), Riorges (France) and Calasparra (Spain). Participants come from diverse social backgrounds, including young people with fewer opportunities, thereby reflecting the diversity of European societies. From a youth work perspective, the project contributes to empowering young people as active shapers of Europe. They experience that their voices matter, that diversity is a strength and that shared values form the basis for a democratic and solidary coexistence. The European Tree remains as a visible symbol and long-term outcome of this shared learning and creative process.