Active Citizens For a Better Future
Empowering youth to engage in democratic life, counter misinformation, and build inclusive communities.
1–9 September 2025 · Varna, Bulgaria
Project overview
Active Citizens For a Better Future empowers young people to participate meaningfully in democratic life, combat misinformation, and build inclusive communities. Through a 7-day international youth exchange in Varna (Bulgaria) within 1–9 September 2025 and an 18-month project cycle, participants strengthen civic participation, media literacy, leadership and teamwork skills using non-formal education methods.
Key facts
Why this project?
Across Europe, young people navigate an information-dense, polarised environment that can discourage civic participation. This project addresses partner and youth needs identified in joint analysis: structured learning on civic rights and responsibilities; critical thinking and media literacy training; inclusive spaces for diverse young people (especially those with fewer opportunities); and hands-on routes into volunteering and community action.
Objectives
- Active citizenship: Deepen understanding of rights, responsibilities and ways to influence community life.
- Media literacy: Equip youth to evaluate sources, spot misinformation and communicate responsibly.
- Inclusion & diversity: Ensure youth from varied backgrounds feel valued and able to contribute.
- Community engagement: Mobilise young people into volunteering and local initiatives.
- Leadership & teamwork: Build skills in project management, public speaking and negotiation.
- Networking: Connect participants with peers, youth workers and stakeholders for collaboration.
Who will take part?
Thirty-one participants aged 16–29 — including eight with fewer opportunities (economic, geographic, health or social barriers) — will join mixed-nationality teams led by experienced group leaders and a facilitator. Selection prioritises motivation, diversity and balanced gender/country representation.
What will happen? (programme highlights)
- Civic & EU values workshops: Democracy, human rights, equality, participation.
- Simulations & educational games: Debates, decision-making, advocacy tasks.
- Civic walks / field research: Identifying local needs in Varna and mapping community issues.
- Creative campaign labs: Co-creating mini-campaigns (videos, graphics, podcasts).
- Intercultural evenings: Sharing culture through food, language, music and stories.
- Daily reflection & Youthpass: Guided reflection groups; recognition of learning outcomes.
Expected results
For participants: Greater civic awareness and European identity; stronger critical thinking, communication and collaboration; practical leadership experience; recognised competences (Youthpass).
For communities & partners: Youth-led awareness campaigns; stronger transnational cooperation; lasting tools and know-how for media literacy and civic engagement education.