City Bound Europe – European Identity is a series of five international youth encounters that invite young people aged 14 to 17 to actively engage with their role as European citizens. The aim of the project is to promote a positive and personal understanding of European identity – beyond political polarization, Euroscepticism, and media distortion. In many EU member states, European integration is increasingly portrayed in a critical light. This project offers an experiential and relatable counter-perspective: young people experience Europe not as an abstract construct, but as a space of encounter, diversity, and shared values. Through intercultural exchange and collaborative learning, a sense of belonging to the European community is fostered. Project Objectives • Strengthening European identity: Young people should experience Europe as an inclusive, democratic, and solidaristic space and understand what it means to be a European citizen. • Promoting tolerance and intercultural understanding: Personal encounters and joint activities encourage respectful engagement with diversity. • Developing social and civic competences: Participants learn to actively engage in democratic processes and to use their voice. • Broadening horizons through non-formal education: The method of adventure-based learning enables experiential learning, strengthens self-confidence, and fosters creative problem-solving. Why this age group? Young people aged 14 to 17 are at a crucial stage of personal development. Many have not yet had any international experience and know Europe only from school or the media. City Bound offers them the opportunity to experience Europe directly, to exchange ideas with peers from other countries, and to develop an authentic sense of belonging.