GEYC - Group of the European Youth for Change

Events - Concluding our Training Course in Spain

2026-11-02T18:57:38.518+02:00

Erasmus+ Training Course | 23-29 October | Benalmádena, Spain

Location: Benalmadena, Spain

Participants: 25 Youth Workers

Countries: 16

Project Code: 2026-1-RO01-KA151-YOU-000390817

What happens when you bring 25 passionate youth workers from 16 different countries together under the warm Spanish sun? You get an explosion of non-formal learning, intense collaboration, and concrete strategies to bulletproof youth organizations against modern crises. Hosted in vibrant Benalmádena, our Erasmus+ training course, "Organizational Development for Preparedness," focused on moving NGOs from a reactive stance to proactive resilience.

The Mission and Methodology: Learning by Doing

We skipped boring lectures and dry presentations. Instead, the entire 5-day agenda relied on non-formal education, interactive games, and peer-to-peer learning. From the moment we kicked off with team-building dynamics, music games, and our unique expectations wall via Mentimeter, participants were immersed in hands-on activities.

Key Highlights from the Program:

The Causeland Game: Tables represented distinct NGOs managing simulated crises, allocating resources, and resolving red flags together.
Preparedness Theatre: Teams acted out based on real organizational crises like losing the leader or zero budget left.
Financial Resilience & The Banana Game: Splitting simulated resources across staff, travel, and operations to survive funding shocks.
Open Space & Erasmus+ KA Corners: Exploring Key Actions (KA152, KA153, KA210, KA220) to plan future joint projects.

Study Visit to Oracle Malaga: Cybersecurity is Care

A major highlight of the week was our study visit to Oracle in Malaga. We had an eye-opening session and presentation on NGO cybersecurity by Georgiana Nutu (Technical Program Manager, Microsoft). We learned that cybersecurity is simply digital care—protecting the vulnerable beneficiary data we hold and applying basic habits like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), secure passphrases, and rigorous data management. The session wrapped up with an engaging Formula 1 simulation game built on Microsoft, Oracle, and Red Bull partnerships.

What We Took Home

Participants did not just enjoy the Costa del Sol sun and dancing energizers; they built tangible outputs. Each organization developed custom Mini-SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) covering emergency response, staff handovers, wellbeing, conflict management, and grant reporting. We finalized individual Transferability Action Plans to ensure our communities back home directly benefit from what we learned.

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Open call - ChildACT+: Implică elevii în deciziile din comunitatea lor

2026-11-02T17:35:08.710+02:00

ChildACT+

Apel de selecție pentru profesori și lucrători de tineret

Program de participare civică pentru echipe de elevi

Ești profesor sau lucrător de tineret și te interesează cum pot fi implicați mai mult elevii în deciziile care îi privesc, la școală și în comunitate?

Centrul Român de Politici Europene (CRPE), împreună cu GEYC, lansează un apel de selecție pentru 12 profesori și lucrători de tineret care să coordoneze echipe de câte 7-15 elevi, cu vârste între 14 și 18 ani, în cadrul proiectului european ChildACT+.

Elevii vor participa la activități de formare în care vor învăța cum să identifice probleme din școală sau din comunitate, să propună soluții și să își susțină ideile în fața autorităților locale. Fiecare echipă va elabora un plan de acțiune, iar 6 dintre cele 12 planuri vor fi selectate pentru implementare, cu sprijin și mentorat din partea echipei proiectului.

Ce presupune participarea la program?

15 noiembrie 2026 – 15 ianuarie 2027

Program de formare pentru elevi

Elevii vor participa la un program de formare în care vor învăța:

✓ Ce drepturi au și cum pot participa la deciziile care îi privesc, atât la școală, cât și în comunitate
✓ Cum sunt luate deciziile la nivel local, ce responsabilități au autoritățile și cum pot contribui la rezolvarea unor probleme legate de educație, transport, mediu sau spații publice
✓ Cum să pregătească o propunere, să își susțină ideile și să discute cu reprezentanții autorităților locale
✓ Cum să folosească rețelele sociale pentru a se implica în comunitate și cum să recunoască și să verifice informațiile false
✓ Ce posibilități de participare există pentru copii și adolescenți, de la consiliile elevilor și bugetarea participativă până la inițiative și platforme europene

15 ianuarie – 15 februarie 2027

Elaborarea unui plan de acțiune local

Fiecare echipă va identifica o problemă din școală sau din comunitate și va pregăti un plan de acțiune cu soluții propuse, activități și pași pentru punerea lor în practică.

Ce pot viza inițiativele?

Îmbunătățirea transportului școlar, amenajarea unor spații publice pentru copii, organizarea unor consultări cu autoritățile locale sau găsirea unor modalități prin care elevii să fie implicați mai mult în deciziile din comunitatea lor.

15 februarie – 15 iunie 2027

Selectarea și implementarea a 6 inițiative

Dintre cele 12 planuri dezvoltate în a doua etapă, 6 vor fi selectate pentru implementare. Echipele selectate vor primi sprijin și mentorat pentru a-și pune ideile în practică și vor colabora cu autoritățile locale.

Cine poate aplica?

Apelul se adresează profesorilor și lucrătorilor de tineret din școli, ONG-uri sau alte organizații care lucrează direct cu copii și adolescenți și sunt interesați să coordoneze activități de participare civică la nivel local.

Persoanele selectate vor forma și coordona câte o echipă de 7-15 elevi, cu vârste între 14 și 18 ani, vor facilita participarea acestora la activitățile de formare și îi vor sprijini în elaborarea planurilor de acțiune, împreună cu echipa proiectului.

Încurajăm în mod special înscrierile din mediul rural și din orașele mici, precum și din partea profesorilor și lucrătorilor de tineret care lucrează cu elevi din grupuri vulnerabile sau cu oportunități reduse de participare.

Criterii de selecție

Interesul pentru implicarea elevilor Motivația de a coordona activități prin care copiii și adolescenții să participe la deciziile din școală și din comunitate.

Distribuția geografică Vom urmări selectarea unor echipe din mai multe regiuni ale țării, inclusiv din mediul rural și din orașe mici.

Diversitatea și incluziunea Vom urmări o reprezentare echilibrată a participanților din perspectiva genului, precum și implicarea elevilor din grupuri vulnerabile sau cu oportunități reduse de participare.

Disponibilitatea de implicare Profesorii și lucrătorii de tineret selectați vor coordona echipele pe parcursul formării și elaborării planurilor de acțiune, iar cei ale căror inițiative vor fi selectate vor continua și în etapa de implementare.

Programul se va desfășura pe baza metodologiei ChildACT, dezvoltată și testată împreună cu profesori, organizații neguvernamentale și structuri de participare a copiilor.

Cum vă puteți înscrie?

Dacă sunteți profesor sau lucrător de tineret și doriți să coordonați o echipă de elevi în cadrul proiectului ChildACT+, vă invităm să completați formularul de înscriere.

COMPLETEAZĂ FORMULARUL →

Termen-limită pentru înscrieri: 15 noiembrie 2026

Pentru întrebări sau informații suplimentare, ne puteți contacta la alexandra.peca@geyc.ro

News - GEYC aduce vocea tinerilor în Strategia Națională a Culturii 2027–2034: 7 propuneri concrete pentru viitorul sectorului cultural

2026-10-31T19:57:35.354+02:00

Asociația GEYC (Group of the European Youth for Change) a transmis propunerile sale oficiale în cadrul consultării publice pentru Strategia Națională a Culturii 2027–2034. În calitate de organizație cu statut consultativ special pe lângă UN ECOSOC, Head of Network pentru Fundația Anna Lindh în România și partener în promovarea patrimoniului european, susținem integrarea activă a tinerilor în cultura românească — nu doar ca public spectator, ci ca co-creatori, lideri și promotori civici.

Iată sinteza celor 7 direcții strategice pe care le-am propus Ministerului Culturii pentru a accelera modernizarea, digitalizarea și incluziunea în domeniul cultural:

1. Diplomație culturală conectată la rețelele internaționale

Propunere: Recunoașterea explicită a rețelelor culturale internaționale existente — precum Rețeaua Fundației Anna Lindh și rețeaua siturilor cu Marcă a Patrimoniului European (European Heritage Label - EHL) — ca platforme strategice de cooperare între Ministerul Culturii, MAE, ICR și societatea civilă.

De ce este important? Rețelele internaționale deja active oferă canale directe pentru dialog intercultural și diplomație participativă, optimizând resursele publice.

2. Tinerii, Ambasadori Culturali prin programe europene

Propunere: Operaționalizarea rețelei de „Ambasadori Culturali ai Tineretului” prin conectarea acesteia cu turismul cultural durabil și oportunitățile oferite de Erasmus+.

De ce este important? Schimburile internaționale și proiectele de voluntariat transformă tinerii în promotori activi ai patrimoniului local și regional, generând valoare adăugată economică și coeziune socială.

3. Educație digitală, IA etică și lupta împotriva dezinformării

Propunere: Crearea de parteneriate între instituțiile de cultură (biblioteci, muzee) și ONG-uri pentru ateliere de cetățenie digitală și alfabetizare media/IA. Propunem sprijinirea la nivel național a campaniei European Digital Citizenship Education Week (EDCEWeek) și valorificarea resurselor dezvoltate prin Rețeaua Europeană PRISMA.

De ce este important? Adopția rapidă a inteligenței artificiale necesită instrumente agile de alfabetizare media, pe care ONG-urile le au deja testate și validate la nivel european.

4. Marketplace digital pentru spații culturale și hub-uri de tineret

Propunere: Implicarea autorităților locale în cartografierea spațiilor publice neutilizate și crearea unei platforme deschise de tip marketplace (matching digital) care să conecteze aceste spații cu ONG-urile de tineret și creatorii independenți.

De ce este important? Reduce birocrația și oferă o soluție transparentă și rapidă la lipsa de spații accesibile pentru inițiativele culturale comunitare.

5. Recunoașterea competențelor dobândite prin Erasmus+ și ESC

Propunere: Validarea formală pe piața muncii culturale a competențelor transversale și de management obținute de tineri prin Erasmus+ și Corpul European de Solidaritate (folosind Youthpass), precum și crearea de programe de incubare (fast-track) pentru tinerii profesioniști din sectoarele creative (pornind de la bunele practici ale proiectului ACT4EU).

De ce este important? Previne precaritatea profesională și permite instituțiilor culturale să absoarbă tineri bine pregătiți, cu experiență practică internațională.

6. Sinergie între cultură, drepturile omului și combaterea discursului de ură

Propunere: Alinierea Strategiei Naționale a Culturii cu strategiile naționale de prevenire și combatere a discursului de ură, xenofobiei și radicalizării, prin finanțarea proiectelor culturale și de educație nonformală dedicate incluziunii și toleranței.

De ce este important? Proiectele culturale adresate tinerilor sunt o primă linie de intervenție eficientă împotriva dezinformării și urii online.

7. Spații culturale verzi și sustenabile: Apă potabilă gratuită pentru toți

Propunere: Introducerea unui standard obligatoriu de sustenabilitate în instituțiile culturale publice prin asigurarea accesului gratuit la apă potabilă (cișmele/dozatoare), în linie cu inițiativa europeană Water4EU.

De ce este important? Este o măsură concretă de incluziune, sănătate publică și reducere a consumului de plastic de unică folosință în spațiile culturale.

Prin aceste măsuri, GEYC își reafirmă angajamentul de a sprijini modernizarea sectorului cultural și de a aduce competențele, energia și viziunea internațională a tinerilor în centrul politicilor publice din România.

Open Call - [IT-819] LIGHT THE SPARK!, 11.12.2026-20.12.2026, Agrigento, Sicily, Italy

2026-10-30T19:49:45.199+02:00

Key Information

11/12/2026 - 20/12/2026Arrival / Departure

Agrigento, Sicily, Italy

4 NovemberApplication
Deadline

6 participants + 1 Group LeaderApply Now →

💡 About the Project

LIGHT THE SPARK! is an Erasmus+ Youth Exchange focused on optimism and motivation, two essential competences for personal growth, resilience and effective leadership.

This third edition of the long-term Youth Exchange initiative builds upon the skills developed in previous projects, which focused on communication and eloquence in 2024, and problem-solving and decision-making in 2025. In 2026, the focus shifts to optimism and motivation.

Young people today face uncertainties, social pressures and challenges that can affect their confidence, motivation and ability to pursue their goals. Developing a constructive mindset and learning how to stay motivated can help them overcome obstacles, recognise opportunities and take initiative in their personal, educational and professional lives.

Through non-formal education, interactive workshops, creative activities and intercultural teamwork, participants will explore their strengths, develop self-confidence, set meaningful goals and discover practical strategies to motivate themselves and others.

By sharing experiences and learning together in an international environment, participants will strengthen their resilience, sense of initiative and leadership potential, becoming more confident and motivated to contribute positively to their communities.

The programme uses non-formal education methods, including team-building activities, role-playing, simulations, creative workshops, group work, peer-to-peer learning, discussions, reflection exercises and experiential learning.

✨ Highlight: This project is hosted by Euro-Mediterranean Association of Exchanges Volunteers Events (EUROMED ITALIA) and supported by the Erasmus+ Programme.

🎯 Objectives

Develop optimism and a constructive mindset, helping young people approach challenges with confidence and resilience.
Strengthen self-motivation and goal-setting skills through practical and experiential learning.
Encourage participants to recognise their strengths, overcome limiting beliefs and take initiative in their personal and professional lives.
Develop leadership skills by learning how to inspire, encourage and motivate others.
Foster intercultural dialogue, cooperation and mutual support among young people from different backgrounds.
Empower participants to become active, confident and motivated young leaders in future Erasmus+ initiatives and their local communities.

👥 Target Group

6 participants + 1 Group Leader per partner organisation.
Participants aged 18–25, interested in personal development, optimism, motivation, leadership and citizenship.
Open-minded and motivated young people willing to learn, share experiences and actively engage in intercultural activities.
Priority will be given to young people who have not previously participated in Erasmus+ projects.
Partner organisations should ensure gender balance and select at least 4 participants with fewer opportunities per country, particularly young people facing economic, social, geographical or educational barriers.
Group Leaders must be aged 18+, with no upper age limit, and preferably have experience in Erasmus+ projects and non-formal education.
Group Leaders should be able to support, motivate and guide their national groups, facilitate learning activities and contribute to participants' well-being throughout the exchange.

🏠 About the Location

The mobility will take place in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy, at Hotel Tre Torri, located at Viale Cannatello n. 7, Villaggio Mosè, Agrigento.

🏡 Venue: Hotel Tre Torri

The venue offers comfortable accommodation, a well-equipped activity room and facilities including a swimming pool.

The sea is nearby, and the weather in Sicily is generally warm throughout the year.

Participants are recommended to bring swimwear, sunscreen and light clothing.

All meals will be adapted to participants' dietary needs to ensure an inclusive experience.

🚆 How to Get There

The most common arrival airports for reaching Agrigento are Catania Airport (CTA) and Palermo Airport (PMO).
From Catania Airport (CTA): Direct buses to Agrigento depart every 40–60 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 2h30–3h. More details: SAIS Trasporti.
From Palermo Airport (PMO): Direct buses to Agrigento are available, with four daily departures at 10:45, 12:15, 17:30 and 19:30. More information: Autolinee Sal.
Alternatively, participants can travel via Palermo city by taking a bus or train from the airport to Palermo Central Station and then continuing by train or bus to Agrigento. Departures are available approximately every 60 minutes.
From Agrigento to the hotel: Take local Bus 2 or 2/ from Piazzale Rosselli to Villaggio Mosè (Hotel 3 Torri). Tickets cost approximately €1.20 and can be bought at the ticket office at Piazzale Rosselli.
Bus schedules for Bus 2 and 2/: Trasporti Urbani Agrigento.
If your flight is delayed or arrives late and you can no longer catch the bus from Piazzale Rosselli to the hotel, inform the organisers in advance with your approximate arrival time in Agrigento. A pickup from Piazzale Rosselli can be arranged in such cases. This service is intended only for participants arriving late due to a delayed or late-night flight.

✉️ Travel itineraries should be confirmed by Euromed Italia prior to booking to ensure that the dates are eligible.

💶 Financial Details

✅ Covered by Erasmus+:

Transportation, subject to the Erasmus+ travel reimbursement rules.
Accommodation for the duration of the mobility.
Meals during the project.

🙌 Your contribution: a cofunding of 200 RON covering community management and administrative costs not included in the European funding.
Waived for: GEYC’s executive team, Board, interns, volunteers, European Fellows, and participants with fewer economic opportunities. If you have a valid MC Voucher you can use it to waive your contribution.

✈️ Travel Policy

Travel itineraries should be confirmed by Euromed Italia prior to booking to ensure that the dates are eligible.
Travel reimbursement up to 309 euro per person.
Participants may arrive and stay a maximum of 2 days before and/or after the mobility at their own expense and responsibility.
Booking flight tickets directly from the airline websites is recommended.
Only economy-fare airline tickets, second-class train tickets and bus tickets are eligible for reimbursement.
Travel by taxi and first-class travel are not eligible for reimbursement.
Flight tickets should always be accompanied by the boarding passes, clearly stating the dates, price and name of the holder.
For eco-friendliness, participants are encouraged to buy tickets online and check in online whenever possible.
Follow-up and dissemination actions should be completed and shared with the organisers.
A Learning Agreement is required to be read, filled in and signed.

📘 Important Information

Health insurance: mandatory insurance valid in Italy during the entire period of stay, including accidents, COVID-19, emergencies, repatriation and civil responsibility.
Travel documents: participants must have valid travel documents required for travel to Italy.
Youthpass certificate: participants will receive a Youthpass certificate at the end of the mobility.
Full participation: participants are expected to take part in the full programme and contribute actively to the activities.
Group Leaders: Group Leaders are expected to support and guide their national groups and contribute to participants' well-being throughout the Youth Exchange.

Înscrie-te acum ✍️

Events - GEYC & ACT4EU at the Central Asia European Union Youth Forum, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, 26-27 October

2026-10-30T11:24:51.772+02:00

GEYC joined the official garagErasmus delegation, representing the wider Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA) community, at the Central Asia-European Union Youth Forum in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on 26-27 October 2026. The event brought together young professionals, international alumni networks, universities and public institutions to advance cooperation in education, entrepreneurship, youth participation and international mobility.

On 26-27 October 2026, the Central Asia-European Union Youth Forum and Scientific and Practical Conference took place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, bringing together young people, researchers, educators, youth organisations and institutional representatives from Europe and Central Asia.

Organised by the Youth Affairs Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the OCEANS Network and the Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA), the forum provided a platform for exchanging experiences, exploring European funding opportunities and strengthening international partnerships.

The European delegation brought together more than ten ESAA representatives, including members of its constituent networks, with GEYC participating as part of the official garagErasmus delegation.

Among the key contributors were Dr. Rustam Abduraupov, Rector of UDEA; Abdulaziz Suyarov, Advisor to the Director and Head of Strategic Planning and Prospective Projects at Uzbekistan's Youth Affairs Agency; Mahmudjon Utkurov, Project Manager at the National Erasmus+ Office in Uzbekistan; Leila Benabdallah, member of the OCEANS Network; and Azizbek Ganiev, Uzbekistan Country Representative of the Erasmus Mundus Association. The thematic sessions featured Adelina Dragomir (Head of Future Skills, GEYC, Romania), Nagore Quintano Fernández (IATS-CSIC/OCEANS, Spain), Tuğce Altuğ (Young Intelligence Association), Tommaso Tagliani (Erasmus Student Network), Samir Beharic and Jovhar Museyibzada (OCEANS Network), as well as Gevorg Harutyunyan (garagErasmus and EduHub) and Madina Urazmanbetova (OCEANS Network). Together, these contributors brought complementary perspectives from youth policy, higher education, scientific research, international mobility, entrepreneurship and youth leadership, enriching the exchange between European and Central Asian participants.

The first day was hosted by the University of Digital Economics and Agrotechnologies (UDEA) in Tashkent, an institution collaborating with Coventry University in the United Kingdom to deliver internationally oriented educational programmes. The conference opened with contributions from university leadership, the Youth Affairs Agency, the National Erasmus+ Office in Uzbekistan and representatives of international alumni networks.

Discussions explored opportunities under Erasmus+, Erasmus Mundus, Horizon Europe and other international programmes, alongside practical experiences in academic mobility, skills development, entrepreneurship, research and youth leadership. Parallel sessions enabled participants to exchange perspectives on European-funded projects, career development, artificial intelligence, international education and cross-border cooperation.

Connecting the Erasmus Generation Across Continents

The forum highlighted the importance of international alumni communities in sustaining cooperation beyond individual mobility experiences. Four organisations and initiatives are particularly relevant to understanding this international ecosystem.

The Erasmus+ Student and Alumni Alliance (ESAA) is an international umbrella alliance bringing together four major Erasmus+ student and alumni networks: the Erasmus Student Network (ESN), the Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA), garagErasmus and OCEANS. Supported by the European Union, ESAA strengthens connections among current and former participants in European mobility programmes, promoting professional development, intercultural learning, international cooperation and active participation. Its activities help transform individual educational experiences into lasting networks and opportunities for collaboration across countries and sectors.

The OCEANS Network, whose name stands for Organisation for Cooperation, Exchange and Networking, is a global community bringing together students and alumni who have participated in international credit mobility between European and partner-country universities. As one of ESAA's four constituent networks, OCEANS promotes international dialogue, knowledge exchange, personal and professional development, and cooperation between academic communities worldwide. Its involvement in organising the Tashkent forum reflected its commitment to connecting Erasmus+ alumni with new international opportunities.

garagErasmus is a European foundation and professional network established in 2012 to ensure that the benefits of international mobility continue beyond the exchange experience itself. The organisation connects universities, companies, cities and Erasmus alumni, supporting employability, entrepreneurship, innovation and active European citizenship. Through professional networking, skills development, international cooperation and support for new initiatives, garagErasmus helps members of the Erasmus Generation transform their experiences into long-term professional and societal contributions. GEYC's participation through the garagErasmus delegation created an important opportunity to contribute its expertise in youth work, entrepreneurship and European project development to this international community.

Erasmus Mundus is an initiative within Erasmus+ that supports international cooperation in higher education, particularly through jointly designed master's programmes delivered by university consortia across multiple countries. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters enable students from around the world to study at different universities and obtain joint or multiple degrees, with competitive scholarships available to support participation. The Erasmus Mundus Association, one of ESAA's member networks, connects graduates and students of these programmes and contributes to international alumni cooperation. For young people in Central Asia, Erasmus Mundus offers an important pathway towards advanced education, international research networks and professional development.

The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is one of Europe's largest student-led organisations, established in 1989 to promote international mobility, intercultural understanding and active citizenship. Through its extensive network of local associations across Europe, ESN supports international students, advocates for inclusive and accessible educational opportunities, and contributes to personal and professional development. As one of ESAA's four constituent networks, ESN strengthens cooperation between students, universities and international mobility communities.

Cooperation Between Central Asia and Europe

Cooperation between the European Union and Central Asia has gained increasing strategic importance, including in education, research, innovation, digital transformation and sustainable economic development.

In April 2025, the first EU-Central Asia Summit, held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, elevated relations between the two regions to a strategic partnership. The European Union also announced a €12 billion Global Gateway investment package focused on connectivity, critical raw materials, digital infrastructure, water and energy.

Beyond economic and infrastructure cooperation, investment in people, knowledge and skills is essential to ensuring that these partnerships generate sustainable benefits for communities.

Existing educational cooperation demonstrates the potential for further development. According to the National Erasmus+ Office in Uzbekistan, 98 Uzbek universities had participated in Erasmus+ cooperation since 2015, while 63 Capacity Building in Higher Education projects received funding between 2015 and 2024. More than 3,000 students and university staff participated in international credit mobility exchanges since 2015. Between 2021 and 2024, Uzbek institutions accounted for 39% of Erasmus+ international credit mobilities in Central Asia.

The European Union Delegation to Uzbekistan also reported in 2026 that 154 students from Uzbekistan had received Erasmus Mundus scholarships since 2015, illustrating the growing importance of academic exchange and international educational pathways.

At regional level, initiatives such as DARYA - Dialogue and Action for Young People in Central Asia, a €10 million EU-funded programme implemented by the European Training Foundation, further support cooperation on skills development, vocational education and the transition from education to employment.

These developments demonstrate that EU-Central Asia cooperation already has a substantial foundation. The next challenge is to expand its reach beyond academic mobility, creating stronger connections between universities, civil society organisations, entrepreneurs, public institutions and young professionals.

Uzbekistan's Young Population and Its Growing Investment in Youth Development

Uzbekistan offers a particularly relevant context for international youth cooperation because of its demographic profile.

Uzbekistan has one of the youngest populations in Central Asia, with approximately 52% of its population under the age of 30, according to preliminary national census data released in 2026. This remarkable demographic profile represents both a strategic opportunity and a significant responsibility for the country's development. With more than half of its population consisting of children and young adults, investment in quality education, employment, entrepreneurship, digital skills and international mobility is particularly important. For the European Union, this demographic potential reinforces the value of long-term cooperation with Uzbekistan, particularly through initiatives that connect young people with educational opportunities, innovation ecosystems and international professional networks.

Supporting young people is therefore not only a social priority but a central component of Uzbekistan's long-term development.

The country has developed an increasingly structured youth policy framework, with the Youth Affairs Agency playing a central role in coordinating programmes and services. Policy priorities include youth employment, entrepreneurship, education, digital skills, vocational training, social inclusion, volunteering and youth participation.

The Youth of New Uzbekistan - 2030 strategic agenda places particular emphasis on expanding opportunities for young people, including measures to strengthen entrepreneurial education, access to financing, innovation, employability and participation in community development.

Several initiatives illustrate this approach. The Youth Business School, launched in 2026, provides entrepreneurship training and links successful participants with financial support opportunities. Programmes such as Yoshlar Biznesi and Kelajakka Qadam have supported the establishment of youth-led businesses, while other initiatives provide access to vocational education, digital learning, mentoring and startup financing.

According to information published by the Uzbek authorities in 2026, these two entrepreneurship programmes helped 15,000 young people establish businesses in 2025, generating employment for approximately 50,000 people.

These efforts highlight an increasingly practical approach to youth development, combining educational opportunities with financial instruments, institutional support and pathways towards economic independence.

A Field Visit to Uzbekistan's Youth Affairs Agency

An important component of the forum was the visit to the Youth Affairs Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan on 27 October.

The ESAA delegation had the opportunity to learn about the Agency's portfolio of youth programmes and gain a closer understanding of how national youth policies are translated into services and opportunities for young people.

Particular attention was given to mechanisms supporting youth entrepreneurship, startup development, employment, access to finance, education and professional training, as well as the role of public institutions in connecting young people with these opportunities.

The visit provided valuable insights into Uzbekistan's approach to youth policy implementation, including how dedicated public programmes, educational institutions and financial support mechanisms can work together to help young people develop their ideas and enter the labour market.

For the European delegation, these exchanges offered an opportunity to identify potential areas for joint initiatives, institutional partnerships and knowledge exchange.

GEYC Presents ACT4EU: Supporting Young Creative Entrepreneurs Through Erasmus+

Representing GEYC, Adelina Dragomir, Head of Future Skills, contributed to the conference on 26 October through the session “Creative Entrepreneurship through Erasmus+: The ACT4EU Project & Erasmus KA2 Discussions.” Her presentation introduced A.C.T.4EU - Advocacy, Creativity and Transformation for Europe, an Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnership in Youth implemented by RESOPA (France), GEYC (Romania), EuroMuévete (Spain) and Social Hackers Academy (Greece). The project addresses barriers faced by young creative professionals, including limited access to business knowledge, funding opportunities, mentoring and professional networks. Through international research, advocacy resources, entrepreneurship training and cross-sector collaboration, ACT4EU supports young people in transforming creative ideas into viable and sustainable initiatives. GEYC also presented the outcomes of its five-week Inclusive Entrepreneurship Accelerator, delivered between April and May 2026, which attracted 45 registrations, awarded 20 certificates and resulted in 10 venture plans, with an overall participant satisfaction score of 4.93 out of 5.

A particularly important milestone presented in Tashkent was the launch of the ACT4EU Creative Mentorship Platform, now available at act4eu.eu/mentorship. The platform connects emerging creative entrepreneurs with experienced professionals, enabling mentorship relationships, knowledge exchange and continued support beyond individual training activities. By presenting the project's results and reusable resources to an audience extending beyond the European Union, GEYC highlighted the potential for transferring inclusive entrepreneurship methodologies to other regional contexts, including Central Asia. The presentation also introduced the next steps of ACT4EU, including the Creative Entrepreneurship Conference taking place in Bucharest on 9 November 2026, and encouraged international stakeholders to explore future collaboration around creative industries, entrepreneurial skills, mentoring and youth employability.

Building the Foundations for Long-Term EU-Central Asia Partnerships

Beyond its formal programme, the Central Asia-European Union Youth Forum provided an exceptional opportunity to establish new professional relationships, exchange institutional experiences and explore shared priorities for future cooperation.

Direct exchanges between European alumni networks, Central Asian universities, youth organisations and public authorities highlighted numerous areas in which cooperation could continue, particularly in entrepreneurship education, digital and future skills, youth participation, research, innovation and international project development.

The discussions also reinforced the importance of connecting formal education with non-formal learning, involving civil society in international cooperation and ensuring that young people can access meaningful opportunities regardless of geographical or socioeconomic background.

For GEYC, participation in Tashkent represented an important step towards developing long-term partnerships with organisations and institutions in Uzbekistan and across Central Asia. The knowledge exchanged, connections established and opportunities identified provide a valuable foundation for future Erasmus+ initiatives, joint educational activities, capacity-building projects and international cooperation.

The experience also demonstrated that the challenges faced by young people in Europe and Central Asia often intersect: accessing relevant skills, entering the labour market, developing entrepreneurial ideas, building professional networks and contributing meaningfully to their communities.

Addressing these challenges through international cooperation can generate mutual learning and practical solutions that benefit young people across both regions.

GEYC extends its appreciation to the Youth Affairs Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the OCEANS Network, ESAA, garagErasmus, UDEA, the EU Delegation to Uzbekistan and all participating organisations and individuals for creating an environment conducive to meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange and partnership development.

The forum concluded with a shared understanding that international mobility and cooperation should not end with a single event. Instead, they can become the starting point for sustained collaboration, stronger institutions and more opportunities for young people.

GEYC looks forward to building on the connections established in Tashkent and contributing to stronger cooperation between European and Central Asian youth communities.

News - ACT4EU Creative Mentorship Platform Is Now Live: Connecting Creative Entrepreneurs Across Europe

2026-10-27T08:33:00.000+02:00

ACT4EU | Platform launch

The ACT4EU Creative Mentorship Platform is now live

Connecting creative entrepreneurs with experienced professionals to exchange knowledge, develop ideas and build stronger creative ventures across Europe.

Explore the platform → Discover mentors, entrepreneurs and new perspectives.

The launch

Good ideas need the right support

A creative career is not built on talent alone. Whether someone is developing a first project, finding clients, defining a business model or expanding an established initiative, access to experienced professionals can make a meaningful difference.

That is why the A.C.T.4EU: Advocacy, Creativity and Transformation for Europe partnership has launched its Creative Mentorship Platform, a dedicated online space for emerging creative entrepreneurs and professionals willing to share practical knowledge, experience and perspectives.

The launch is a milestone in ACT4EU's work to strengthen creative entrepreneurship, expand professional networks and make tailored support more accessible across Europe's creative and cultural sectors.

Who is it for?

One community, two ways to participate

The platform brings together people looking for guidance and those ready to share their expertise.

Creative entrepreneurs

Working in design, music, visual arts, photography, film, fashion, digital media or another creative field? Find professionals who may help you clarify goals, navigate challenges and develop your work.

Mentors and professionals

Have experience in entrepreneurship, creative industries, communication, strategy or business development? Share what you know, engage with emerging talent and support a more connected creative ecosystem.

How it works

Four steps towards a mentorship connection

Build your profile, discover compatible people and begin a conversation based on shared interests and goals.

Create your profile

Introduce your creative background, expertise, goals and the type of support you are seeking or offering.

Discover potential matches

Explore mentors and creative entrepreneurs with relevant interests, skills and development needs.

Connect and communicate

Use mentorship invitations and messaging to initiate a conversation and discuss possible goals.

Develop your collaboration

Keep track of your mentorship relationship, exchange insights and identify practical next steps.

Mentorship is about finding a good fit. The platform helps users explore relevant connections based on the experience and needs shared in their profiles.

Platform features

Designed for meaningful connections

Member discovery

Explore a community of mentors and creative entrepreneurs.

Relevant matching

Find people whose experience and interests align with your goals.

Messaging and invitations

Start conversations and manage mentorship requests.

Progress and continuity

Follow active mentorship connections and develop next steps.

About ACT4EU

Part of a wider commitment to creative entrepreneurship

The Creative Mentorship Platform is an important outcome of A.C.T.4EU: Advocacy, Creativity and Transformation for Europe, an Erasmus+ cooperation partnership bringing together RESOPA (France), GEYC (Romania), EuroMuévete (Spain) and Social Hackers Academy (Greece).

Coordinated by Social Hackers Academy, the platform complements the project's research, advocacy training, entrepreneurial development activities and cross-sector collaboration. Together, these activities seek to strengthen skills, professional networks and opportunities for creative entrepreneurs.

For GEYC, the launch creates an additional pathway for continued learning and collaboration beyond the project's training and entrepreneurship activities.

Join the ACT4EU community

Discover your next creative connection

Looking for guidance on your creative venture? Ready to share your experience as a mentor? Visit the platform, create your profile and explore opportunities to learn and collaborate.

Visit the Mentorship Platform →

Publication | NeuroDem Card Game

2026-10-26T18:52:59.014+02:00

The NeuroDem Card Game is a cooperative, discussion-based game that explores real-life barriers faced by neurodivergent people and encourages players to work together towards more inclusive solutions.

Designed for youth workers, educators, trainers and young people, the game uses scenarios, action cards, barriers, resources and reactions to explore advocacy, accessibility, support and systemic change.

There is no competition or single correct answer. Players can contribute by speaking, writing, choosing cards or observing, making the game adaptable to different communication styles and participation needs.

Who can use it?

Youth workers and youth organisations
Teachers, educators and trainers
Young people and peer groups
Organisations promoting neurodiversity, inclusion and democratic participation

What will you find?

The card deck includes six types of cards: Scenario, Action, Barrier, Resource, Reaction and Special. The accompanying rulebook explains how to set up and play the game, with flexibility to adapt the experience to participants' needs.

How to use the game

Download and print the card deck, cut out the cards, and follow the accompanying rulebook to set up and play. The game can be used in youth work sessions, workshops, classrooms, or group activities. No special equipment is needed beyond the printed cards and the rulebook.

Download the Cards and Rulebook

Events - GEYC at the Octopus Conference 2026: International Cooperation, Digital Citizenship and Cybercrime Prevention

2026-10-24T12:30:00.000+03:00

How can international cooperation, criminal justice, technology regulation and education work together to address cybercrime while protecting fundamental rights? This question was at the centre of the Octopus Conference 2026, organised by the Council of Europe between 14 and 16 October at the Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg. Marking the 25th anniversary of the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, the conference brought together approximately 500 experts and representatives from more than 100 countries, including policymakers, prosecutors, law enforcement authorities, researchers, technology companies, international organisations and civil society representatives. Discussions explored the evolution of international cybercrime cooperation, threats to democratic processes, the impact of artificial intelligence, online safety and the responsibilities of different actors in creating a safer digital environment.

GEYC was represented by Adelina Dragomir, Head of Future Skills, who participated in discussions on cybersecurity, democratic resilience, digital citizenship education and the protection of young people online. In addition to contributing to exchanges on safeguarding and the responsibilities of youth workers, Adelina delivered a lightning talk entitled “Cybercrime has a ‘before’. Youth workers are already there.” The intervention brought the perspective of youth work and non-formal education into international discussions on cybercrime, highlighting the importance of recognising risks and providing appropriate support before further harm occurs.

Twenty-five years of the Budapest Convention: strengthening international cooperation

The conference opened with reflections on the achievements and future of the Budapest Convention, adopted in 2001 as the first international treaty specifically addressing cybercrime and electronic evidence. Over the past 25 years, the Convention has supported the development of national legislation, investigative procedures and international cooperation mechanisms, including the 24/7 Network of contact points. The anniversary discussions examined how these frameworks can remain effective as digital technologies evolve and criminal investigations increasingly involve electronic evidence held across multiple jurisdictions.

Kenneth Harris, INTERPOL Special Negotiator, emphasised the importance of creativity and flexibility in international legal negotiations. The intervention recalled that many mechanisms now considered essential to cybercrime investigations, including expedited preservation of electronic evidence and international cooperation networks, were relatively unfamiliar when the Budapest Convention was developed. The challenge was to establish meaningful international obligations while allowing countries with different legal traditions to implement them effectively. Particular attention was also given to the importance of privacy and data protection safeguards, especially in the context of the Second Additional Protocol to the Budapest Convention, which strengthens international cooperation in obtaining electronic evidence.

Nathan Whiteman, Director of the Cyber & Tech Multilateral Engagement Section at Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, highlighted the importance of trust and professional relationships in international negotiations. Beyond formal procedures and legal drafting, dialogue between negotiators helps identify common objectives and overcome disagreements arising from different national priorities. The discussion illustrated how informal exchanges, sustained communication and mutual understanding can contribute to international agreements capable of functioning across diverse legal systems.

The relationship between existing and emerging international frameworks was examined by Marcos Sebastián Dotta Salgueiro, representative of Uruguay's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The intervention addressed Uruguay's efforts to align its national legislation with international cybercrime standards and the practical implications for judges, prosecutors and other legal professionals. The discussion also considered the relationship between the Budapest Convention and the newer United Nations Convention against Cybercrime, known as the Hanoi Convention, emphasising an approach based on legal coherence and complementarity. The exchange reinforced the importance of maintaining effective cooperation mechanisms while preserving fundamental rights and avoiding unnecessary fragmentation between international legal frameworks.

Cyber interference, artificial intelligence and democratic resilience

One of the conference's substantive workshops, “Disinformation and foreign manipulation: responding to cyber interference”, examined how coordinated information operations can undermine democratic institutions and electoral processes. Moderated by Pablo Maristany de las Casas, Analyst at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, the session brought together representatives of security institutions, criminal justice authorities, civil society and the private sector. A central theme was that foreign interference extends beyond the dissemination of false information, increasingly involving coordinated account networks, impersonation, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure designed to amplify manipulative narratives.

Yurii Shaposhnikov, Head of International Cooperation in the Cyber Department of the Security Service of Ukraine, presented Ukraine's experience identifying and attributing coordinated information operations. The intervention explained that investigators must look beyond individual misleading posts and examine the networks responsible for producing, distributing and amplifying content. Technical infrastructure, recurring narratives and simultaneous activity across multiple platforms can help identify coordinated campaigns. The discussion also addressed how information manipulation may accompany periods of crisis, seeking to undermine public confidence in institutions and influence perceptions of unfolding events.

Kristian Bartholin, Head of Division for Countering Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference and Hybrid Threats at the Council of Europe, examined how democratic societies can respond to interference without compromising fundamental freedoms. Manipulation campaigns frequently exploit existing social tensions and political grievances, making it difficult to distinguish coordinated interference from legitimate public debate. The intervention stressed that democratic resilience depends not only on criminal justice responses but also on independent journalism, trustworthy institutions, civil society and citizens' ability to critically assess information. The discussion also covered ongoing Council of Europe work concerning a possible international legal instrument addressing foreign information manipulation and interference.

The legal challenges of investigating interference were addressed by Fernanda Teixeira Domingos, Federal Prosecutor and Coordinator of the Advisory Group on Cybercrime at the Criminal Chamber of the Federal Prosecution Service of Brazil. The intervention explained how existing cybercrime legislation can apply to certain forms of election interference, particularly when activities involve unauthorised access to systems, data manipulation or other criminal offences. At the same time, not every form of disinformation constitutes a crime. Investigative measures involving electronic evidence must therefore respect requirements concerning legality, necessity, proportionality and privacy, while international cooperation remains essential when relevant information is held across different jurisdictions.

Isabel Linzer, Elections and Democracy Policy Analyst at the Center for Democracy & Technology, examined how artificial intelligence is transforming political information environments through synthetic content, impersonation and increasingly sophisticated manipulation techniques. Particular attention was given to political influencers, whose relationships with online audiences can be exploited in coordinated influence operations, especially when financial or political connections remain undisclosed. The intervention also stressed that technological solutions and platform regulation cannot address these challenges independently. Civil society organisations have an important role in identifying emerging risks, representing affected communities and contributing to policy development, while ensuring that responses to interference do not undermine freedom of expression and other fundamental rights.

Cătălin Cosoi, Chief Security Strategist at Bitdefender, contributed a Romanian cybersecurity perspective, discussing the rapid amplification of political content on social media during Romania's 2024 presidential election and the challenges of identifying coordinated influence networks. The intervention also addressed the growing use of AI-generated impersonation in online fraud and the difficulties of obtaining timely removal of misleading content from digital platforms. These examples reinforced the need for faster reporting mechanisms, greater platform accountability and stronger cooperation between technology companies, cybersecurity specialists and law enforcement authorities.

Together, these contributions demonstrated that cyber interference requires responses extending beyond technical investigation or content moderation. Protecting democratic processes depends on international cooperation, appropriate legal safeguards, platform transparency and the capacity of institutions and communities to recognise manipulation without restricting legitimate political expression.

Responsible artificial intelligence, online safety and platform accountability

Another important workshop, held on 15 October, examined the responsibilities of technology developers, digital platforms, regulators and public authorities in addressing the harmful applications of AI-generated media. The session, moderated by Naomi Trewinnard, Legal Advisor to the Lanzarote Committee Secretariat, brought together researchers, legal experts, regulators, technology companies and civil society representatives to explore the challenges associated with emerging image-generation technologies and their potential misuse. Discussions focused on responsible technology development, appropriate safeguards, rapid reporting and removal procedures, cross-border cooperation and the availability of effective support for individuals affected by harmful online practices.

Leonie Oehmig, Research and Digital Policy Analyst at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, presented findings from research supported by the United Kingdom's AI Security Institute examining the operation of AI-enabled image manipulation services. The research identified gaps in access controls, user safeguards and oversight across a range of online services, illustrating the challenges created when technological capabilities develop more rapidly than the mechanisms designed to govern them. The presentation also examined how mainstream digital platforms, advertising systems and payment mechanisms can contribute to the visibility and commercial development of digital services. These findings highlighted the importance of accountability across the entire technological ecosystem, with responsibilities extending beyond individual websites to include developers, service providers and other organisations involved in digital infrastructure.

Soyoung Park, Deputy Director for Online Safety Policy at the Korea Communications Standards Commission, presented South Korea's experience in strengthening online protection mechanisms and responding to the misuse of emerging digital technologies. The contribution described measures involving stronger regulation, monitoring of digital services and cooperation with platforms to accelerate the removal of harmful material. Particular attention was given to the importance of accessible support services, including legal guidance and counselling, recognising that an effective response requires more than technical intervention. The Korean experience illustrated the value of coordinated arrangements between public authorities, technology companies and specialist organisations.

Maria Bjarnadottir, Expert in Technology Law, argued that the misuse of emerging digital technologies must be understood in relation to broader social behaviours rather than treated exclusively as a technological challenge. Although artificial intelligence changes how harmful material can be produced and distributed, the underlying issues often involve established patterns of intimidation, discrimination and misuse of power. Drawing on Iceland's experience, the contribution highlighted the importance of combining legislation with sustained prevention initiatives involving schools, police officers, prosecutors, parents and community organisations. Education and behavioural change were presented as essential complements to legal accountability, particularly when addressing behaviours that may evolve alongside technological developments.

Michael Stawasz, Deputy Chief for Computer Crime at the United States Department of Justice's Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, presented developments in the American legal response to harmful digital content, including mechanisms that strengthen reporting procedures and require covered platforms to respond promptly to valid removal requests. The contribution also described an international investigation involving cooperation between authorities in the United States and Europe that resulted in action against online services facilitating unlawful activities. The example demonstrated how established international frameworks, including the Budapest Convention, can support cooperation between jurisdictions and how legal and technical measures can be combined to address harmful digital services and their supporting infrastructure.

The workshop also included contributions from Thiago Tavares, President of SaferNet Brazil, and Guillermo Galarza Abizaid, Global Law Enforcement Outreach Lead for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at TikTok, who contributed to discussions on platform responsibilities, reporting procedures and international cooperation. The exchanges highlighted that harmful digital services often rely on interconnected technological and commercial infrastructure, making coordinated action essential. Participants emphasised that effective responses must combine legal measures, responsible technology governance, prevention, clear accountability mechanisms and accessible support for individuals experiencing online harm.

GEYC raises the question of safeguarding for youth workers

During the workshop, Adelina Dragomir, Head of Future Skills at GEYC, contributed to the discussion by highlighting the preparedness of youth workers and non-formal educators to respond when young people experience online harm involving emerging digital technologies. Youth workers are frequently among the first trusted adults approached by young people facing online threats, manipulation or harassment, yet many do not have specialised training or clear procedures for addressing such situations. The intervention therefore raised a practical question: What should the minimum safeguarding and response protocol for non-formal educators include?

The exchange connected the workshop's discussions on regulation, criminal justice and individual support with the realities of youth work. When a young person discloses an experience of online harm, the initial response may influence whether further difficulties can be prevented and whether appropriate assistance is accessed. For GEYC, this highlights the importance of strengthening youth workers' capacity to recognise warning signs, respond without blame and facilitate referrals, while maintaining clear professional boundaries and ensuring that specialist responsibilities remain with the appropriate institutions.

Digital citizenship education: connecting European policy with practical prevention

Beyond the formal workshops, the conference provided opportunities to discuss digital citizenship education and its role in democratic resilience and online safety. These exchanges were particularly relevant to the Council of Europe's work towards a Road Map for Strengthening Digital Citizenship Education 2027-2031, which aims to support more coordinated approaches involving public policy, awareness-raising, education and training. The discussions reinforced the importance of moving beyond isolated educational activities towards sustainable cooperation between educational institutions, public authorities and civil society organisations.

GEYC's experience through the PRISMA European Network provided a practical perspective on these objectives. The European Digital Citizenship Education Week 2026, held between 14 and 20 September, brought together 280 registered activities across 20 countries, engaging more than 7,000 direct participants. The campaign connected organisations and practitioners working on digital rights, online safety, media literacy, artificial intelligence and democratic participation. The conference also provided opportunities to revisit GEYC's earlier cooperation with the Institute for Strategic Dialogue through the Young Digital Leaders initiative, which supported digital citizenship and media literacy education in Romania. These experiences demonstrate the importance of connecting international policy discussions with practical educational initiatives delivered in schools, youth organisations and local communities.

Adelina Dragomir delivers the lightning talk “Cybercrime has a ‘before’. Youth workers are already there.”

On 16 October, Adelina Dragomir, Head of Future Skills at GEYC, delivered a lightning talk entitled “Cybercrime has a ‘before’. Youth workers are already there.” The intervention brought a prevention-oriented perspective to a conference focused largely on cybercrime legislation, investigations and international cooperation, highlighting the importance of recognising online harm before situations escalate and connecting young people with appropriate support. Rather than beginning with the legal classification of an offence, the talk focused on the moments when young people first encounter manipulation, pressure, deception or harmful online behaviour and may turn to someone they already trust.

The intervention opened with the question “Can I show you something?”, illustrating a situation in which a young person approaches a trusted adult after receiving a troubling message online. Feeling frightened and uncertain about what to do, their immediate concern is not whether a criminal offence has occurred, but rather “Who can help me now?” This scenario illustrated the gap between the first signs of online harm and the moment when a situation reaches a platform, helpline or law enforcement authority. By that stage, the young person may already have responded to messages, deleted relevant information or decided to remain silent. An offence may already have occurred, but opportunities can still exist to prevent further escalation and support a safer response.

Adelina described this critical period as the prevention window. Youth workers are often already present within it because they work in the same communities as young people, establish relationships before problems arise and may be among the first trusted adults approached when something goes wrong. However, as the intervention emphasised, being present does not automatically mean being prepared. Youth workers need appropriate knowledge, safeguarding procedures and clear connections to specialised services if they are to respond effectively when young people disclose concerns involving online manipulation, harassment or other forms of digital harm.

Drawing on GEYC's work through the PRISMA European Network and European Digital Citizenship Education Week, the talk emphasised that digital citizenship education must move beyond theoretical awareness towards practical prevention. As Adelina stated, “Awareness is not prevention if people do not know what to do when the risk becomes real.” Knowing what phishing is matters, but knowing how to respond after clicking a suspicious link matters more. Understanding AI-generated impersonation is relevant, but when someone is experiencing digital manipulation, they need more than a definition. They need to recognise escalation, avoid actions that could increase harm, preserve relevant information and know where to seek specialist help. Digital citizenship education should therefore strengthen both young people's capacity to respond and the preparedness of trusted adults around them.

The presentation introduced a visual model illustrating how everyday online situations may progress from initial warning signs, such as manipulation, deception, pressure or suspicious contact, towards more serious forms of harm involving fraud, impersonation, account compromise or other forms of technology-facilitated abuse. Within this process, youth workers can contribute by recognising concerns, supporting an appropriate initial response, understanding the importance of evidence preservation and facilitating referral to specialist services. Crucially, this does not mean asking youth workers to become investigators or assume responsibilities belonging to law enforcement, legal professionals or specialised safeguarding institutions. Instead, the intervention advocated for recognising them as informed prevention and referral partners, whose trusted relationships with young people can help connect existing support systems earlier.

A central message was that young people should not have to identify an offence before they can find help. The objective is not to transfer responsibility away from criminal justice authorities or specialist services, but to ensure that these systems can be reached through trusted adults who may encounter the first signs of harm. As the talk concluded, “If we want cybercrime prevention to begin earlier, we have to start where young people often start: with someone they already trust. Youth workers are already there. Let’s make that presence count.” Through this intervention, GEYC advocated for stronger recognition of youth work, safeguarding and non-formal education within the wider cybercrime prevention ecosystem.

The final message captured this perspective: “Because cybercrime has a ‘before’. And that is where digital citizenship education becomes prevention.”

Connecting international cooperation with prevention at community level

The Octopus Conference 2026 demonstrated that cybercrime requires responses extending across criminal justice, cybersecurity, technology governance, public policy and education. The discussions on the Budapest Convention reinforced the importance of adaptable international legal frameworks and effective cooperation in obtaining electronic evidence, while the workshops on foreign interference and responsible artificial intelligence highlighted the challenges of coordinated manipulation, online safety and platform accountability. Across these different subjects, a common conclusion emerged: stronger legal and technical responses must be accompanied by prevention, informed communities and accessible support systems that can respond before harm escalates.

For GEYC, the conference reinforced the importance of connecting international expertise with practical educational approaches that prepare young people and trusted adults to navigate digital risks. Through its work in digital citizenship education, democratic participation and the PRISMA European Network, GEYC will continue to promote cooperation between youth organisations, educators and institutions responsible for online safety and cybercrime prevention. Digital citizenship education is not a substitute for criminal justice or specialised support, but it can contribute to earlier recognition of harm, safer responses and stronger connections between young people and the services they need.

Open call - Cerere de oferte pentru servicii de audit financiar extern

2026-10-22T22:24:46.067+03:00

Cerere de Oferte pentru Servicii de Audit Financiar Extern

(Certificat privind Situațiile Financiare - CFS)

Proiect: PRISMA Framework for Digital Democracy and Citizenship

Contract de Grant nr.: 101235778 (CERV-2026-OG-SGA) | Anul Financiar 2026

1. Contextul proiectului și obiectul achiziției

Asociația GEYC (Group of the European Youth for Change) implementează în perioada 1 ianuarie 2026 – 31 decembrie 2026 proiectul PRISMA Framework for Digital Democracy and Citizenship (Contract de Grant nr. 101235778), finanțat de Comisia Europeană prin Agenția Executiva Europeană pentru Educație și Cultură (EACEA) în cadrul Programului Cetățeni, Egalitate, Drepturi și Valori (CERV-2026-OG-SGA).

Obiectul prezentei cereri de oferte îl constituie achiziția de servicii de verificare financiară și audit extern în vederea emiterii Certificatului privind Situațiile Financiare (CFS - Certificate on the Financial Statement), obligatoriu la finalul perioadei de raportare conform Acordului de Grant (grant UE solicitat ≥ 100.000 EUR). Costul auditului este un cost direct eligibil, încadrat la categoria C.3 (Alte bunuri, lucrări și servicii).

Detalii suplimentare și șabloane privind livrabilele: Termeni și condiții CFS.

2. Structura Bugetară aferentă misiunii de audit

Valoare totală buget eligibil: 131.250,00 EUR
Valoare grant UE (EACEA): 105.000,00 EUR (finanțare 80%)

Proiectul este finanțat sub formă de Grant Operațional (Operating Grant - OG). Conform normelor specifice ale Acordului de Grant, categoria Costuri Indirecte / Regie (Categoria E) nu se aplică acestui proiect (toate cheltuielile eligibile fiind înregistrate ca costuri directe). De asemenea, proiectul nu conține cheltuieli pentru subcontractare sau echipamente, ceea ce restrânge aria de verificare a auditorului la categoriile active de mai jos:

Categorie Cost	Denumire Categorie	Statut / Valoare	Aria de Verificare Audit
Categoria A	Costuri de Personal (Personnel costs)	Costuri directe active	Eșantion state plată, contracte (de muncă, de practică), pontaje lunare
Categoria B	Subcontractare (Subcontracting)	0 EUR (Neaplicabil)	Nu este cazul (fără achiziții Cat. B)
Categoria C.1	Călătorii și Subzistență (Travel & Subsistence)	Costuri directe unitare	Documente justificative deplasări/unit costs: circa 30 persoane care au călătorit
Categoria C.2	Echipamente (Equipment)	0 EUR (Neaplicabil)	Nu este cazul (fără achiziții Cat. C.2)
Categoria C.3	Alte bunuri, lucrări și servicii	Costuri directe active	Facturi/plăți servicii (incl. audit CFS): circa 50 tranzacții
Categoria D.1	Sprijin Financiar acordat Terților (FSTP)	Costuri directe active	Contracte FSTP, rapoarte, dovadă transferuri: 6 beneficiari
Categoria E	Costuri Indirecte / Regie (Indirect costs)	Neaplicabil (Nu se aplică)	Nu este cazul (categorie neeligibilă în OG)

3. Calificarea auditorului și standardele profesionale

Auditorul ofertant trebuie să îndeplinească următoarele condiții cumulative:

Acreditare profesională: Să fie auditor financiar/statutar autorizat în România, membru activ CAFR (Camera Auditorilor Financiari din România) / ASPAAS, calificat în conformitate cu Directiva 2006/43/CE.
Independență: Să fie independent față de Asociația GEYC (atât în fapt, cât și în aparență), respectând cerințele Codului de Etică IESBA.
Standarde de audit: Verificarea trebuie efectuată strict conform standardului internațional ISRS 4400 (Revised) - Agreed-upon Procedures Engagements și pe baza modelului oficial de CFS furnizat de Comisia Europeană (Portalul Funding & Tenders, versiunea 2.2).

4. Calendarul de implementare și livrabile

Misiunea de audit se va desfășura conform următorului calendar ferm:

15 ianuarie 2027: Asociația GEYC transmite auditorului desemnat dosarul financiar complet (state de plată, rapoarte financiare SyGMa, extrase de cont, mostre justificative C.1, C.3, D.1).
15 ianuarie - 4 februarie 2027: Efectuarea procedurilor de verificare de către auditor, clarificări și eșantionare suplimentară (dacă este cazul).
5 februarie 2027: Termenul limită absolut pentru predarea Raportului CFS complet semnat și ștampilat (inclusiv Termenii de Referință ToR și Lista de verificare AUP semnate în format PDF scanat).

5. Criteriul de atribuire și evaluarea ofertelor

Atribuirea contractului se va face pe baza criteriului „Cel mai bun raport calitate-preț”, cu următoarea pondere a factorilor de evaluare:

Factor de Evaluare	Pondere	Descriere și Mod de Calcul
Prețul ofertei financiare (RON cu TVA)	80%	Punctaj = (Preț minim oferit / Preț ofertat) × 80 puncte. Prețul se va exprima în RON, cu TVA inclus.
Experiență anterioară proiecte EACEA / UE	20%	Punctaj acordat pentru experiența anterioară (max. 20 puncte): - Experiență generală pe proiecte UE: Câte 5 puncte pentru fiecare proiect/grant UE auditat (indiferent de program), până la un maxim de 15 puncte (pentru 3 sau mai multe proiecte). - Bonus de specializare EACEA: 5 puncte suplimentare dacă cel puțin unul dintre proiectele UE auditate a fost gestionat direct de EACEA (CERV, Erasmus+, Creative Europe etc.).

6. Modul de transmitere a ofertelor

Ofertele se vor transmite prin e-mail la adresa office@geyc.ro (Persoană de contact: Gabriel Brezoiu), până la data limită de 20 noiembrie 2026.

Dosarul de ofertă va conține în mod obligatoriu:

Formularul de Ofertă Tehnico-Financiară completat, semnat și ștampilat (Anexa 1);
Copie după Certificat/Autorizație CAFR/ASPAAS a societății de audit/auditorului.

Descarcă formularul de ofertă (Anexa 1)

Publication | NeuroDem Toolbox

2026-10-21T15:32:35.458+03:00

The NeuroDem Toolbox is a practical resource for youth workers, educators, trainers, and organisations working with young people who want to make democratic participation and advocacy more inclusive for neurodivergent youth.

It offers a collection of educational materials on key issues and challenges that may threaten democratic resilience in the areas of digitalisation, sustainability, and equality.

The content and pedagogical approaches were developed in collaboration with youth workers, pedagogues, psychologists, and both neurodivergent and neurotypical young people. The development process was based on surveys and co-design sessions, ensuring that the diverse interests and needs of a heterogeneous target group were reflected as comprehensively as possible.It includes interactive, non-formal learning activities and practical tools to help young people understand democracy, explore their rights, participate in decision-making, and engage in digital activism.

Published in October 2026 | Access HERE | Romanian version will be available soon

From Local Action to Global Impact: “Thirsty for Solutions” presented at the UN Youth Mobilization Segment | UNGA 81 - Third Committee Youth Forum

2026-10-19T15:37:14.176+03:00

On 9th of October 2026, Ana Maria Todoran, one of the Youth Delegates of Romania to the United Nations for the 2026-2027 mandate and Head of Sustainability at GEYC, took part in the Youth Mobilization Segment convened by the Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY) in the context of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

During the session dedicated to Means of Implementation and Partnerships - Sharing Best Practices, she shared the experience of “Thirsty for Solutions”, a youth-led initiative coordinated by GEYC that demonstrates how young people can turn local concerns into advocacy, institutional dialogue and tangible change.

From a local challenge to youth-led advocacy

Access to free public drinking water is becoming increasingly important as communities face rising temperatures and more frequent heat-related challenges. Yet access to drinking water in public spaces remains uneven, with consequences for public health, environmental sustainability and social equity.

Through “Thirsty for Solutions”, young people from communities across Romania mobilised around this practical challenge, advocating for better access to free drinking water and more sustainable public infrastructure.

The initiative created opportunities for young people to move beyond raising awareness and develop the skills needed to engage with decision-makers. Through a seven-month fellowship, an advocacy bootcamp and engagement with European institutions, participants strengthened their capacity to identify community needs, formulate proposals and advocate for change.

Their efforts involved hundreds of young people and engagement with local authorities, bringing access to public drinking water into broader institutional discussions. The initiative also contributed to increased attention to free drinking-water infrastructure, including the introduction of free drinking-water stations at Bucharest’s airports.

Young people are not only identifying problems. They are building the skills, partnerships and momentum needed to help shape solutions.

Bringing youth-led solutions into the UN discussion

In her intervention, Ana-Maria connected her experience as Romania’s Youth Delegate with her work at GEYC, where she leads the organisation’s sustainability and youth participation portfolio. GEYC holds Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The Youth Mobilization Segment provided a platform for young people, civil society representatives, Member States and UN entities to exchange good practices and explore how financing, capacity-building, volunteering and partnerships can help youth organisations deliver tangible results.

By sharing “Thirsty for Solutions”, Ana-Maria highlighted a central lesson from the initiative:

„Meaningful youth participation requires more than giving young people the opportunity to identify problems. It means enabling them to participate in developing and implementing solutions.”

The experience also highlighted the barriers that youth organisations continue to face, including limited access to decision-makers, short-term funding and insufficient mechanisms to follow up on recommendations.

These challenges underline the importance of sustained support and stronger partnerships that enable young people to contribute throughout the entire policy process, from consultation and implementation to monitoring and accountability.

Beyond consultation: enabling young people to shape change

The intervention contributed a practical perspective to the broader discussion on how youth organisations can deliver results across social development priorities addressed by the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee.

For GEYC, the experience of “Thirsty for Solutions” illustrates the value of investing in young people’s skills, supporting youth-led initiatives and creating pathways for their proposals to reach decision-makers.

It also reinforces the need to make funding, technical support and partnership opportunities more accessible to youth organisations, including those working directly with local communities.

As young people face increasingly complex social and environmental challenges, their participation should not end when a consultation closes. Their knowledge, experience and proposals must be part of the processes through which decisions are made and solutions are implemented.

From local communities to international platforms, youth-led initiatives can demonstrate what works. The next step is ensuring that young people have the resources, partnerships and institutional support to make those solutions last.

What is the Youth Mobilization Segment?

The Youth Mobilization Segment was convened by the Major Group for Children and Youth (MGCY) in connection with the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly’s Third Committee. The Third Committee addresses a broad range of issues related to social development, human rights and the protection of vulnerable groups, including issues that directly affect children and young people.

Held on 9 October 2026 at United Nations Headquarters in New York, the segment focused on how youth organisations can translate their work into tangible results. Bringing together young people, civil society representatives and other stakeholders, the discussions explored good practices in financing, capacity-building, volunteering and partnerships, including intergenerational collaboration.

Events - Water4EU gets to the international stage at the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy hosted by Democracy International

2026-10-04T14:22:24.518+03:00

Between 7-10 October 2026, GEYC will take part at the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy hosted by Democracy International together with the University of Botswana in Gaborone, Botswana. The mission of transfer of expertise is supported by the Romanian Government through RoAid - Romanian Agency for International Development Cooperation and contributes to the GEYC's commitment on international development cooperation based on its UN ECOSOC Special Consultative Status.

Our mission

The GEYC delegation will carry out a mission to transfer Romanian and European expertise at the 2026 Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy in Gaborone, Botswana, contributing to the strengthening of participatory democratic governance in alignment with Romania’s development cooperation priorities in Sub-Saharan Africa. This initiative addresses the identified need to adapt modern democratic tools (such as the ECI) to local contexts by leveraging existing deliberative traditions (the Kgotla), thereby helping to strengthen democratic institutions and cooperation between authorities and civil society.

GEYC Team composed by Ms Lina Boicu and Mr Gabriel Brezoiu will work alongside Ms Daniela Vancic from Democracy International in delivering a workshop on the topic of "Natural Resource & Democratic Governance: The Democracy Lab" - an interactive Democracy Design Lab blending Kgotla-style consensus circles with a live European Citizens’ Initiative simulation. Mixed taskforces co-draft a water governance initiative, stress-test its legal viability and conclude with a symbolic signing ceremony, linking direct democracy practice to the 2026 UN Water Conference. Check out the full programme here.

What happened at the Global Forum?

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The Water4EU Manifesto

The Water4EU Manifesto is a youth-driven initiative that advocates for universal, equitable, and free access to clean drinking water across Europe, framed as a fundamental human right rather than a privilege. Emphasizing the interconnected challenges of climate change, heat stress, and public health, the manifesto calls on European decision-makers to mandate free drinking water infrastructure in high-traffic public spaces—such as transit hubs, educational institutions, and parks—while integrating water resilience into urban planning and ensuring youth active co-creation in water governance.

The Manifesto was developed during the Erasmus+ Youth participation project (KA154) "Thirsty for solutions". Specifically, the manifesto outlines clear demands for policymakers: installing accessible public water fountains and misting stations in every municipality, making tap water freely available in all restaurants and public venues, and establishing strict monitoring systems to guarantee water safety and quality. It further demands targeted investments in sustainable water infrastructure, the elimination of single-use plastic bottles, and the institutionalization of youth advisory bodies to ensure young people have a direct, binding voice in shaping long-term European climate and water management policies.

The Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy

The Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy is the largest gathering devoted to direct democracy worldwide. It favours a multidisciplinary approach, welcoming participants from academic, political and civil society perspectives. It is attended by activists, organisations and academics from all over the world. The goal is to bring together people with different experiences and backgrounds, so as to give activists and organisations the opportunity to share their insights and connect with others working on the same issues.

In 2026, the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy heads to Southern Africa for the first time. We will meet in Gaborone, Botswana, at the University of Botswana, an institution founded through citizens’ collective contributions. The Forum will examine constitutional reform, youth inclusion, democratic resilience, and the connections between democracy, natural resource governance, and climate change. We are especially looking forward to exploring Botswana’s Kgotla system—open community assemblies where residents and leaders deliberate and decide together—and to learning what this living indigenous tradition can contribute to modern participatory and direct democracy.

We also took part as Speakers in the previous two editions of the forum hosted in Mexico-City (2023) and Bucharest (2024).

Closed call - ACT4EU Creative Entrepreneurship Conference in Bucharest, 9th of November 2026

2026-10-01T18:29:21.909+03:00

Open Call · Bucharest · Free participation

Creative Entrepreneurship Conference

How do creative ideas become sustainable projects, businesses and communities? Meet the people building them and join the conversation.

Apply now See the programme Meet our speakers

9 November 2026 09:00-16:00

deGalben Piața Amzei 13, Bucharest

Working language English

Free participation Coffee break and lunch included

Applications are open

Around 80 participants will join us in Bucharest. Each participant applies individually using their own GEYC ID. Places are confirmed on a rolling basis.

Apply for a spot →

Why join?

Creativity is only one part of building a creative career.

Are you developing your own creative project, considering freelancing, or wondering how to turn your creative work into something sustainable? The ACT4EU Creative Entrepreneurship Conference brings together people who have faced the same questions around clients, pricing, visibility, financial sustainability, partnerships and growth.

Creative work rarely follows a straightforward path. Having a strong idea or being talented in your field is only part of the equation. Creative professionals also need to understand how to position their work, communicate its value, develop viable business models, find collaborators and build communities around what they create.

On 9 November, we are creating a space to discuss those realities openly. Rather than presenting entrepreneurship as a single formula, the conference brings together professionals from different creative disciplines to explore how ideas become projects, how projects become sustainable activities and how creative professionals can build stronger ecosystems around their work.

Who is it for?

A meeting point for the creative ecosystem

Young creatives

People active in design, visual arts, music, film, fashion, architecture, photography, digital media, crafts, creative tech and related fields.

Students & graduates

Those exploring freelancing, entrepreneurship or developing their own creative initiative.

Creative entrepreneurs

Freelancers, founders and emerging professionals already building projects, products, services or communities.

Educators & youth workers

Professionals supporting young people as they develop creative, entrepreneurial and professional skills.

NGOs & institutions

Organisations interested in entrepreneurship, youth, culture, participation and creative-sector development.

Cross-sector professionals

People interested in collaborations between the creative industries and other professional fields.

About ACT4EU

From learning and mentoring to a European creative community

The conference marks the final event of A.C.T.4EU - Advocacy, Creativity and Transformation for Europe , an Erasmus+ project implemented by RESOPA (France), GEYC (Romania), EuroMuévete (Spain) and Social Hackers Academy (Greece) .

Since 2025, ACT4EU has supported young people in the creative sectors through advocacy training, mentoring, entrepreneurship development and cross-sector collaboration.

Throughout the project, participants have had access to learning, mentoring, practical resources and opportunities designed to help creative initiatives become stronger and more sustainable.

The conference brings these experiences together while opening the conversation to a wider community of creatives, entrepreneurs, educators, organisations, institutions and professionals from Romania and across Europe.

The conference is organised by GEYC, with Bucharest Sector 1 City Hall as local logistics partner.

9 November 2026

Conference programme

09:00-09:30

Participants arrival & registration

09:30-09:40

Welcome, opening, context & objectives

09:40-09:55

Keynote speech by Mr. Răzvan Hoinaru, PhD - Lecturer | Ambassador for Creative Sector & Sustainable Economics, The Jena Declaration

09:55-10:55

Creative Entrepreneurship Panel

10:55-11:20

ACT4EU Key Results

11:20-11:50

Coffee break & networking

11:50-13:10

ACT4EU World Café

13:10-13:30

Plenary takeaways & sustainability

13:30-13:45

Next steps, final remarks & closing

13:45-15:00

Lunch & networking

15:00-16:00

Field visit

Keynote Speech

Meet our keynote speaker

Economist · Academic · Chair of the Technical Committee on Artificial Intelligence Standardization at ASRO

Răzvan Hoinaru

Economist by training, academic by profession, and historian by heart.

Read full bio

Educated at the University of London (QMUL), he worked at the European Parliament’s permanent IFRS team, translating technical economic language into public policy—and vice versa—to facilitate optimal outcomes.

He serves as Chair of the Technical Committee on Artificial Intelligence Standardization at ASRO and as an honorary advisor to the Ministry of Culture.

He has authored two books and approximately 20 academic articles, and has contributed to professional studies on auditing for a UK authority, as well as studies on non-financial reporting and sustainability for the Brussels Institute of Law and additional research on the history of diplomacy.

He is a member of the Club of Rome (EU Chapter).

As an amateur artist, he has participated in seven art exhibitions across Romania, Belgium, and Tunisia.

He collaborates with the UNESCO Chair at Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany) as an ambassador for creative industries and sustainability.

Creative Entrepreneurship Panel

Meet the panelists

Five professionals, five different creative journeys and five perspectives on what it means to turn creative practice into sustainable work.

Architect · Entrepreneur · Founder, aBC - a Business of Creativity

Armina Popeanu, PhD

An architect and entrepreneur focused on helping creative businesses build stronger strategies, personalised growth processes and financially sustainable models.

Read full bio

Armina Popeanu, PhD, creates contexts for growth, learning and development for entrepreneurs in the creative industries, with a particular focus on architects and designers.

She does this through the aBC - a Business of Creativity ecosystem she founded, including ABC • Agency. Business. Community. and ABC*School, a school developing leaders in the creative industries. She also creates 1:1 journeys focused on clarity and financial sustainability in business and facilitates development workshops.

Armina guides businesses in the creative sectors to think strategically, communicate coherently and build personalised growth processes.

Since 2025, she has held a PhD in Architectural Entrepreneurship following her doctoral research in Business of Architecture at the “Ion Mincu” University of Architecture and Urbanism.

Her thesis, Business Modelling for Architectural Entrepreneurship — An Interdisciplinary Roadmap to Financial Sustainability for Practices within Creative Sectors , resulted in a framework for business models designed for architects, designers and creative entrepreneurs.

She has taught entrepreneurship at The Entrepreneurship Academy and currently teaches architecture at UAUIM as an Assistant Professor.

Since 2026, she has been a member of the International Society for the Study of Creativity and Innovation and a member of the board of the Possibilities Studies Network.

She also serves as Vice President for Communication and Community of the Bucharest Branch of the Romanian Order of Architects and is a member of its Territorial Council for the 2026-2030 term.

Creative entrepreneur · Strategist · Cultural storyteller

Claudiu Șulea

A multidisciplinary creative working across branding, communications, hospitality and cultural projects, with a particular interest in how ideas become projects and projects become communities.

Read full bio

Claudiu Șulea is a creative entrepreneur, strategist and cultural storyteller from Romania.

His career has moved across creative agencies, branding, communications, hospitality and cultural projects, from La Resistance Creative Agency and Perspectiva Studio to building his own independent projects and communities.

Today, he combines his work in marketing and brand strategy with several personal projects such as Buena Vida Collective, a platform exploring the intersection of food, drinks, music and culture, Re:Joice Transylvania, an NGO focused on cultural heritage, and his own platform, Tasting With Shu.

Across his work, Claudiu is interested in what happens when creativity meets entrepreneurship: how ideas become projects, how projects become communities and how communities can create meaningful change.

Social Media Specialist · Educator · @ProfaDeSocialMedia

Diana Coman

A communication professional and educator with more than 15 years of experience in the creative industries, helping creators and businesses grow through social media.

Read full bio

Diana Coman, known online as @ProfaDeSocialMedia, is a Social Media Specialist, PhD in Communication Sciences and Social Media lecturer at the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Studies, University of Bucharest.

She also collaborates with BISM, The Entrepreneurship Academy and Antena Academy and has more than 15 years of experience in the creative industries.

For four years, she worked as Regional Client Partner for Snapchat at Httpool by Aleph, coordinating campaigns and sales across Romania, Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia and CIS.

Her mission is to help people and businesses grow organically through social media.

She provides consultancy and develops communication strategies for brands, artists and content creators.

She also creates educational content across Instagram, TikTok and YouTube as @ProfaDeSocialMedia.

Architect · Product designer · Founder & Creative Director, AȘKIA

Dragoș Motică

An architect and product designer with more than 15 years of experience, working at the intersection of design, product development and contemporary Romanian manufacturing.

Read full bio

Dragoș Motică is an architect and product designer with more than 15 years of experience in design, architecture and product development.

He is the Founder and Creative Director of AȘKIA, continuing a professional journey that began with Ubikubi.

Through his studio, he develops furniture, lighting and interior design projects ranging from experimental objects to products manufactured at scale.

He is the creator of internationally recognised products, including the well-known Slash Lamp, which received a Gold Award at the A' Design Award in 2015.

His practice focuses on functionality, simplicity and the relationship between object, material and user.

He has contributed to the development of dozens of products and collaborated with manufacturers and designers from Romania and abroad.

Through AȘKIA, he is involved not only in product design but also in developing a contemporary perspective on Romanian furniture production.

He approaches design as a process of research, collaboration and, above all, a tool for finding appropriate solutions to real problems.

Visit AȘKIA →

Founder & Director · Artivist Records

Teodora Moroșanu

A performing artist and cultural entrepreneur combining more than 20 years of artistic experience with the work of building a more accessible and sustainable ecosystem for emerging artists.

Read full bio

Teodora Moroșanu is the Founder and Director of Artivist Records, Romania's first non-profit record label .

With over 20 years of experience as a professional performing artist, Teodora offers a combination of artistic insight and organisational expertise.

As the composer and music director of “Iată-ne aici!”, the first jukebox musical based on a Romanian band, Teodora has brought niche independent music to some of the largest theatre stages in the country.

The show is currently playing at the “I. L. Caragiale” National Theatre in Bucharest.

She has led strategy and curriculum development for European projects such as Erasmus+ ART-PRESS, a partnership between Romania and Norway designed to give creatives access to communication, advocacy and PR skills.

Teodora is also a certified trainer who coaches young artists and professionals on performance anxiety and creativity, drawing on her own decades of stage experience.

Through Artivist Records, Teodora is working to build a more accessible and sustainable creative ecosystem in Romania, where young artists can grow without facing exploitative conditions.

Her perspective combines artistic practice and business-building, making her a strong voice on both the opportunities and practical challenges of creative entrepreneurship.

What will you take away?

Ideas, resources and connections you can use after the conference

Real creative-business stories First clients, pricing, positioning, funding, mistakes, growth and turning points.

ACT4EU resources Access the Advocacy Toolbox, Mentorship Platform and Cross-Sector Collaboration Guidebook.

New connections Meet creatives and organisations from Romania, France, Spain and Greece.

Your perspective Contribute ideas during the ACT4EU World Café and exchange experiences with other participants.

Certificate of Participation Receive a certificate that can be included in your CV or professional portfolio.

A full day together Participation, coffee break and lunch are free of charge.

Eligibility

Can I participate?

You are 18 years old or older.
You have or create a valid GEYC ID.
You can follow and participate in a conversation in English.
You can attend the conference in person in Bucharest on 9 November 2026 .
You are interested in creativity, entrepreneurship, creative industries or supporting creative professionals.

You do not need to already run a business.

How to apply

Apply for your spot

Create your free GEYC ID if you do not already have one. A GEYC ID is mandatory for this opportunity.
Go to geyc.ro/youthapp and select [B256] ACT4EU - Creative Entrepreneurship Conference .
Check your inbox. Places are confirmed by the GEYC team on a rolling basis.
Reconfirm your attendance when contacted before the conference.

Practical information

Before you join us

Date: Monday, 9 November 2026
Main conference programme: 09:00-16:00
Venue: deGalben, Piața Amzei 13, Bucharest
Format: In person
Working language: English
Participation fee: Free
Coffee break and lunch: Included

FAQ

Good to know

Do I need to already have a business?

No. You can join whether you already run a creative initiative or are only beginning to explore freelancing, entrepreneurship or your own creative project.

Is my English good enough?

If you can follow and participate in a normal conversation in English, yes. You do not need advanced or academic English.

Does participation cost anything?

No. Participation is free of charge. Coffee break and lunch are included.

Can I attend with friends or colleagues?

Yes. Each participant must apply individually using their own GEYC ID.

Can participants over 30 apply?

Yes. The conference welcomes young creatives as well as educators, youth workers, NGO representatives, creative professionals and other relevant stakeholders aged 18 and above.

Can I participate if I am under 18?

No. Participants must be at least 18 years old.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Write to us at adelina.dragomir@geyc.ro .

Join us in Bucharest

Meet creative entrepreneurs, exchange ideas, discover practical resources and connect with people building creative projects across Europe.

Apply to ACT4EU Creative Entrepreneurship Conference

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are, however, those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

News - Help us shape the YES Training Programmes for Youth Employability and Social Entrepreneurship

2026-09-30T11:32:00.000+03:00

YES Project

After a first year dedicated to understanding the needs of young people and youth workers, the YES consortium is now developing practical learning resources for employability and social entrepreneurship. We are currently refining the training programmes and invite you to help us improve them through your feedback.

During the first implementation year of YES: Youth Engagement and Employability for Success through Social Entrepreneurship, partners across Europe worked with young people and youth workers to understand what makes the transition towards employment and entrepreneurship difficult.

That research phase has already been covered in our first-year YES recap → This time, we are focusing on what came next: turning those needs into practical training tools.

💼

Finding a job

Lack of experience and transversal skills emerged as key barriers for young people entering the labour market.

💡

Starting an initiative

Young people highlighted a lack of practical guidance and entrepreneurial skills, together with a strong fear of failure.

🧩

Supporting young people

Youth workers asked for more relevant, interactive tools and better ways of connecting learning with real opportunities.

The next step

Two training programmes built around real needs

Based on the findings, the partnership has been developing two complementary resources that youth workers and organisations can use to create more practical and engaging learning experiences with young people.

Training Programme 01

YES Training Programme for Youth Employment

The first programme focuses on the transversal and soft skills that young people need to navigate today's labour market.

It goes beyond simply explaining how to look for a vacancy or prepare a CV. Instead, it provides youth workers with practical activities that can help young people recognise their strengths, become more autonomous and practise competencies that are transferable across different jobs and professional environments.

The programme supports learning around areas such as:

✓ Self-awareness

✓ Communication

✓ Teamwork

✓ Problem-solving

✓ Adaptability

✓ Organisation

✓ Professional interaction

✓ Navigating opportunities

Training Programme 02

YES Training Programme for Social Aspiring Entrepreneurs

The second programme focuses on helping young people move from an initial idea towards a more concrete entrepreneurial initiative with social impact.

The needs analysis showed that interest in entrepreneurship is not always matched by access to practical guidance, relevant tools or confidence. The programme therefore translates entrepreneurial concepts into interactive activities that can be used in non-formal education settings.

Young people can explore topics including:

✓ Identifying opportunities

✓ Developing an idea

✓ Creative thinking

✓ Social impact

✓ Resource management

✓ Entrepreneurial thinking

✓ Presenting an initiative

✓ Learning from failure

Your feedback matters

Help us improve the YES Training Programmes

The programmes are still being refined, and this is the moment when your input can make a real difference.

We invite young people, youth workers, trainers, educators and professionals working in employability or entrepreneurship to review the materials and tell us what works, what could be improved and what may still be missing.

Your feedback will help us:

✓ identify which activities are most relevant;
✓ check whether the tools are clear and practical;
✓ identify missing topics or competencies;
✓ improve the activities before their next implementation phase.

Your responses will directly contribute to the next revision of the training materials.

COMPLETE THE SURVEY →

Why now?

Feedback is being collected while the resources can still be reviewed and improved, rather than after the programme has already been finalised.

Why participate?

First-hand perspectives help us understand whether the proposed activities are genuinely usable in youth work and relevant to young people's current realities.

What comes next?

The feedback collected through this consultation will support the consortium in reviewing and strengthening the training materials before moving further into implementation.

YES will also continue with in-person learning activities for young people and youth workers, creating opportunities to put employability and entrepreneurial competencies into practice through interactive learning experiences.

Have a few minutes?

Help us make these resources more relevant, practical and useful for the young people and youth workers who will use them.

SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK →

About YES

YES: Youth Engagement and Employability for Success through Social Entrepreneurship is a 24-month Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnership in the field of youth, implemented from September 2025 to August 2027. The project supports young people and youth workers in strengthening transversal competencies, employability skills and social entrepreneurship knowledge.

YES is co-funded by the European Union under project number 2025-1-IT03-KA220-YOU-000363238.

EDCEWeek 2026 Wrap-Up: Empowering Digital Democracy Across Europe

2026-09-28T14:23:26.085+03:00

#EDCEWeek26: Impact, Key Figures, and Next Steps for Digital Citizenship

The European Digital Citizenship Education Week (#EDCEWeek26) took place from September 14th to 20th, 2026. It brought together young people, educators, and organizations from all over the continent to celebrate and promote digital democracy and active citizenship.

Discover more about the campaign on our official website:
edceweek.prisma-network.eu

Campaign Results & Impact

280

Registered Events

implemented during the campaign

Countries

participated in Europe and beyond

123,846

Total Views

aggregated online reach on PRISMA, partners, and coordinators' social media

7,000+

Direct Participants

exact numbers to be included in the upcoming impact report

Organizational Partners

Spain, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, Greece, Lithuania

10+

Promotional Partners

helping disseminate the campaign

Institutional Partners

Campaign supported by the Council of Europe and funded by the European Commission.

Discover the European Map of Activities

Explore all the amazing initiatives that shaped this edition:
View the interactive map here

What is Next?

The Impact Report: Launching on October 30th, this comprehensive document will include a deep analysis of the results of all implemented activities, as well as a direct comparison between the 2025 and 2026 editions.
PRISMA Ambassadors' Role: Our dedicated ambassadors will provide valuable inputs for the impact report and will officially present it during EDYS26 in Bucharest.
EDYS26 - European Digital Youth Summit: Registrations have officially opened! Join us to celebrate our achievements and shape the future of digital democracy.
Find out more about EDYS26

Multimedia Gallery

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Closed call - [IT-817] Digital Shift - Digitalisation in Youth Work, 26.10.2026-04.11.2026, Agrigento, Italy

2026-09-25T14:53:15.202+03:00

Key Information

26/10/2026 - 04/11/2026Arrival / Departure

Agrigento, Sicily, Italy

28 SeptemberApplication
Deadline

3 placesApply Now →

💡 About the Project

Digital Shift is an Erasmus+ Training Course focused on digitalisation in youth work.

Digitalisation increasingly shapes how young people communicate, learn, participate and engage with the world around them. This creates new opportunities for youth work, while also asking youth workers to adapt their methods, competences and professional judgement.

This Training Course explores how digital approaches and tools can be meaningfully integrated into non-formal education and everyday youth-work practice. Participants will exchange experiences, experiment with practical methods and consider how digitalisation can support learning, participation, inclusion, communication and engagement.

The course is not simply about learning to use tools. It is about understanding when, why and how digital approaches add value. Participants will leave with tested ideas they can adapt within their organisations and local communities.

The programme is based on non-formal education and experiential learning, including team building, simulations, peer learning, group work, practical labs, reflection, discussions, audiovisual methods and collaborative design.

✨ Highlight: This project is hosted by Euro-Mediterranean Association of Exchanges Volunteers Events (EUROMED ITALIA) and supported by the Erasmus+ Programme.

🎯 Objectives

Strengthen digital competence and build confidence in selecting and using digital approaches in youth work.
Improve learning design by exploring practical ways to combine digital elements with experiential and non-formal learning.
Support participation and inclusion by using digitalisation to widen access, engagement and meaningful youth participation.
Encourage critical and responsible practice by reflecting on wellbeing, accessibility, ethics, privacy, online safety and the limits of digital tools.
Create transferable practices by developing ideas and methods that participants can test, adapt and share after the course.

👥 Target Group

3 participants per partner organisation.
Active youth workers, trainers, facilitators, educators, project coordinators and volunteers who work directly with young people and the sending organisation.
Age: 18+, with no upper age limit.
Able to communicate and work in English.
Interested in digital youth work and non-formal education.
Ready to contribute experience, questions and practices from their organisation.
Committed to full participation and to local follow-up after the course.
Open to intercultural learning, teamwork and collaborative experimentation.
Participants must bring a laptop or tablet, as it is necessary for the sessions.

🏠 About the Location

The mobility will take place in Agrigento, Sicily, Italy, at Hotel Tre Torri, located at Viale Cannatello n. 7, Villaggio Mosè, Agrigento.

🏡 Venue: Hotel Tre Torri

The venue offers comfortable accommodation, a well-equipped activity room, and facilities including a swimming pool.

The sea is nearby and the weather in Sicily is generally warm throughout the year.

Participants are recommended to bring swimwear, sunscreen and light clothing.

All meals will be adapted to participants' dietary needs to ensure an inclusive experience.

🚆 How to Get There

There are several ways to reach Agrigento, Sicily. The most common arrival airports are Catania Airport (CTA) and Palermo Airport (PMO).
From Catania Airport (CTA): direct buses to Agrigento depart every 40–60 minutes and the journey takes approximately 2h30–3h. More details: SAIS Trasporti.
From Palermo Airport (PMO): direct buses to Agrigento are available, with limited daily departures at 10:45, 12:15, 17:30 and 19:30. More information: Autolinee Sal.
Alternatively, participants can travel via Palermo city by taking a bus or train from the airport to Palermo Central Station and then continuing by train or bus to Agrigento. Departures are available approximately every 60 minutes.
From Agrigento to the hotel: take local Bus 2 or 2/ from Piazzale Rosselli to Villaggio Mosè (Hotel 3 Torri). Tickets cost approximately €1.20 and can be bought at the ticket office at Piazzale Rosselli.
Bus schedules for Bus 2 and 2/: Trasporti Urbani Agrigento.
If your flight is delayed or arrives late and you can no longer catch the bus from Piazzale Rosselli to the hotel, inform the organisers in advance with your approximate arrival time in Agrigento. A pickup from Piazzale Rosselli can be arranged in such cases.

✉️ Travel itineraries should be confirmed by Euromed Italia prior to booking to ensure that the dates are eligible.

💶 Financial Details

✅ Covered by Erasmus+:

Transportation
Accommodation
Meals

Waived for:

✈️ Travel Policy

Travel itineraries should be confirmed by Euromed Italia prior to booking to ensure that the dates are eligible.
Participants may arrive and stay a maximum of 2 days before and/or after the mobility at their own expense and responsibility.
Booking flight tickets directly from the airline websites is recommended.
Only economy-fare airline tickets, second-class train tickets and bus tickets are eligible for reimbursement.
Travel by taxi and first-class travel are not eligible for reimbursement.
Flight tickets should always be accompanied by the boarding passes, clearly stating the dates, price and name of the holder.
For eco-friendliness, participants are encouraged to buy tickets online and check in online whenever possible.
Follow-up and dissemination actions should be completed and shared with the organisers.
A Learning Agreement is required to be read, filled in and signed.

📘 Important Information

Health insurance: mandatory insurance valid in Italy during the entire period of stay, including accidents, COVID-19, emergencies, repatriation and civil responsibility.
Travel documents: valid travel documents required for travel to Italy.
Youthpass certificate: participants will receive a Youthpass certificate at the end of the mobility.
Equipment: participants must bring their own laptop or tablet, as it is necessary for the sessions.
Full participation: participants are expected to take part in the full programme and complete the required local follow-up.

Înscrie-te acum ✍️

Publication | EU-MATTER Phase 1 Report

2026-09-21T10:35:17.030+03:00

The EU-MATTER Phase 1 Report captures the outcomes, learning experiences and key findings from five seminars organised by GEYC and IVC in Bucharest between June and August 2026.

Across the seminar series, young people explored EU institutions and policymaking, European strategic priorities, civic participation and engagement mechanisms, media literacy, critical thinking and democratic resilience. Through simulations, policy challenges, collaborative exercises and exchanges with practitioners, participants were encouraged to connect European-level processes with their own realities and opportunities for civic engagement.

The publication brings together the methodology, learning outcomes and cross-cutting findings from Phase 1, highlighting the knowledge, skills and attitudes developed by participants and the value of experiential learning in European civic education. It also looks ahead to Phase 2 and the EU-MATTER National Policy Labs, where the journey continues from understanding European democracy towards applying knowledge through policy development and civic action.

Published in September 2026 | Explore the report here.

Publication | Methodology on Understanding and Participating in EU Policymaking

2026-09-18T16:17:47.962+03:00

How are EU policies actually made, and where can young people have a say?

This publication offers a practical and adaptable educational methodology for exploring the EU policy-making process with young people. Designed for youth workers, educators, trainers and civil society organisations, it translates complex institutional processes into accessible, participatory learning experiences.

Built around non-formal education and experiential learning, the publication includes interactive activities, policy case studies, visual mapping, participation exercises, policy simulations, co-creation methods and evaluation tools. Its modular approach allows activities to be adapted to different groups, learning environments, national contexts and timeframes.

The methodology was developed in the framework of the EU-MATTER project, as a resource for strengthening youth participation, civic engagement and democratic competence across Europe.

Published in September 2026 | Read HERE

Events - Young people in Bucharest explore Europe’s competitiveness through Tech, AI and Defence - COMPASS civic incubator lab

2026-09-17T10:58:29.689+03:00

As part of the COMPASS: COMpetitiveness Policy for Accelerating Sustainable Solutions project, GEYC organised a Civic Incubator Lab in Bucharest, Romania, bringing together 44 young participants to explore some of the key challenges shaping Europe’s economic and strategic future.

The Lab was delivered through two in-person sessions, held on 28 May and 21 August 2026, and engaged students, young professionals, representatives of youth organisations, civil society actors and participants with limited previous exposure to formal policy discussions.

Making complex policy topics accessible

The Civic Incubator Labs form the educational and deliberative core of COMPASS. Their role is to help young people better understand European competitiveness while creating space for dialogue, exchange and collective reflection.

In Bucharest, the discussions focused on two interconnected thematic areas: Tech & AI and Defence. Participants explored questions related to European technological capacity, AI and future careers, technological sovereignty, responsible use of emerging technologies, defence fragmentation, strategic autonomy and European cooperation.

Rather than approaching these topics only through presentations, the Lab combined expert contributions, dedicated knowledge-building sessions and a participatory World Café methodology. This structure allowed participants to first develop a common understanding of key concepts and then discuss challenges, opportunities and different perspectives in smaller rotating groups.

From local dialogue to the European level

Across the two sessions, participants reflected on issues ranging from Europe’s ability to scale innovative technology companies and retain talent to the need for future skills, human oversight in the use of AI, stronger European technological capacity and more effective cooperation in defence.

The conversations also showed the importance of balancing different objectives. Participants discussed how Europe can strengthen its own capabilities while remaining internationally connected, how innovation can coexist with safeguards and fundamental rights, and how greater cooperation can be pursued while respecting different national priorities.

The Bucharest Lab is one step in a wider COMPASS participation process. Insights gathered locally will contribute to the project’s Competitiveness Dialogues, where young people will engage with policymakers and institutional representatives, and later feed into the Brussels Forum and the development of a Youth Strategy Paper on EU Competitiveness.

Through this process, COMPASS aims to make complex European policy debates more accessible to young people and create meaningful opportunities for them to contribute their perspectives to discussions about Europe’s future.
Read the full report

The complete COMPASS Civic Incubator Lab Report presents the methodology, discussion outcomes and key takeaways from the Bucharest sessions in more detail.

You can access it HERE

See how the latest lab activity went below:

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Publication - COMPASS Civic incubator lab in Bucharest, Romania

2026-09-17T10:27:48.243+03:00

The COMPASS Civic Incubator Lab Report captures the main discussions and outcomes of the two sessions delivered by GEYC in Bucharest, bringing together 44 young participants to explore European competitiveness through the themes of Tech & AI and Defence. The report highlights participants’ perspectives on issues such as AI and future skills, technological sovereignty, responsible technology, defence cooperation and strategic autonomy, while identifying key priorities to inform the next stages of the COMPASS process.

Published in September 2026 | Download HERE or read below

Events - Shaping the Future of Youth Engagement in Cultural Heritage: GEYC Joins European Heritage Label Event in Bucharest

2026-09-14T17:55:50.085+03:00

How can cultural heritage become more relevant, accessible, and meaningful to younger generations?

From 26 to 27 September 2026, GEYC (Group of the European Youth for Change) is proud to participate in the European Heritage Label (EHL) Youth Event taking place at the iconic Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest—itself a designated European Heritage Label Site.

Under the theme "From Challenges to Action: Co-creating Youth Engagement in EHL Sites," the event brings together around 40 young people (aged 21–30), heritage professionals, representatives from EHL Sites across Europe, members of the EHL Youth Advisory Board, and youth organizations.

Rather than just talking about young audiences, this gathering is designed to work with youth to directly identify real-world challenges and co-create practical solutions that can be tested across Romanian EHL Sites.

What’s on the Agenda?

Day 1: Saturday, 26 September — Workshops & Co-Creation Labs

Participants will open the event with a plenary session examining the current landscape of youth participation, communication gaps, accessibility, representation, and long-term engagement in Romania.

The day will move into five hands-on practical workshops covering:

Difficult Heritage and Intergenerational Dialogue
Connecting Rural Youth with EHL Sites
Communication Strategies for Young Audiences
Funding & Turning Ideas into Action
Sustainable Tourism at EHL Sites

Following these sessions, mixed teams of young leaders and heritage experts will enter Co-Creation Labs to turn these insights into concrete pilot projects, youth-led initiatives, and actionable strategies.

Day 2: Sunday, 27 September — Implementation & Next Steps

The second day focuses on refining these proposals for real-world implementation, testing, and future cross-sector collaboration. The event will wrap up with presentations of the developed pilot activities and recommendations for ongoing work.

Beyond Bucharest: Building Lasting Impact

Timed to coincide with European Heritage Days 2026, this event connects local action with a wider European dialog on community engagement, identity, and active citizenship.

For GEYC, our participation reflects our core commitment to empowering young people as co-creators of European culture and democracy. The work initiated in Bucharest aims to forge continuous partnerships between young change-makers, youth organizations, and heritage professionals—ensuring that shared European heritage remains a living, evolving dialogue. As culture and in particular the cultural heritage are part of our identity, we are delighted to integrate our participation in this event in the European Digital Citizenship Education Week 2026.

Cultural/natural heritage as an engine for rural development

This initiative builds on GEYC’s ongoing commitment to bridging youth, digital tools, and cultural preservation. It follows our successful Erasmus+ youth exchange, DigiEcho Heritage, held in Bran, Romania in 2024, where 40 young people from six countries explored digital storytelling to promote local heritage and celebrate European connections. So far, no EHL site from Romania is situated in a rural area, thus we see a strong potential for rural nominations in the following years.

About the European Heritage Label (EHL)

The European Heritage Label currently encompasses 80 sites across 23 European countries, forming a living museum of Europe that reflects the diversity of its histories and the unity of its shared values—such as human dignity, democracy, freedom, equality, and human rights.

EHL is an initiative of the European Commission, supported through the Creative Europe programme. To learn more about EHL sites and initiatives, visit the official European Heritage Label Bureau.

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#EDCEWeek26 Official Launch: European Digital Citizenship Education Week is getting started

2026-09-14T11:33:56.932+03:00

The European Digital Citizenship Education Week 2026
is Officially Here

The wait is over. Today, September 14th, marks the official launch of the European Digital Citizenship Education Week 2026 (EDCEWeek). Coordinated by the PRISMA European Network, this pan-European campaign brings together educators, youth workers, NGOs, and citizens to champion digital rights, media literacy, and online safety.

We are incredibly proud to announce that the campaign kicks off with over 200 events already registered on our European Map of Activities, spanning across 18 countries. The movement is growing rapidly, and you can be a part of it. We invite you to discover the initiatives taking place by exploring our interactive map. Find an activity near you or join an online session using the details available on the platform.

A Special Message from Commissioner Glenn Micallef

To inaugurate this week of action, we are honored to present an official opening message from European Commissioner Glenn Micallef. With a strong commitment to youth policies and intergenerational fairness, Commissioner Micallef understands the profound challenges and opportunities presented by the digital transition. In his address, he highlights the absolute necessity of Digital Citizenship Education and the critical skills young people must develop to navigate and thrive in today's digital era safely and responsibly.

Digital Citizenship: The New Frontier of Democracy

Tomorrow, September 15th, the world celebrates the International Day of Democracy. The timing of our campaign launch is no coincidence.

There is a deep and undeniable correlation between the principles of democracy and the concepts of Digital Citizenship Education (DCE). In our modern society, civic engagement, public debate, and political participation have largely migrated to the digital space. Therefore, digital literacy is no longer just a technical requirement; it is a fundamental democratic right and responsibility. By educating young people to critically evaluate online information, combat disinformation, and respect digital rights, we are actively protecting and reinforcing democratic values in the digital sphere. True democracy today requires empowered digital citizens.

Put Your Community on the Map

Do you want to create European DCE impact? The registration of events remains open until the end of September. Whether it is a classroom debate, a community workshop, or an online awareness campaign, your local actions matter.

Still not sure whether to join? Check out our carousel on the top reasons to register your activity this September:

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What is Next?

European Impact Report: After completing your activities within EDCEWeek, you will be invited to complete an impact reporting form. The data collected will be synthesized into an official European Impact Report, which will be presented directly to European institutions to amplify the voices of your community.
Need Inspiration? If you are looking for ideas on what to organize, we have got you covered. Check out our Partners Guidebook, packed with methodologies, templates, and actionable concepts ready to be implemented in your event.
Save the Date for EDYS26: The momentum does not stop here. The European Digital Youth Summit 2026 (EDYS26) will take place at the Cotroceni Palace in Bucharest on November 20th. Registrations will open soon! Keep a close eye on our social media page for updates and VIP invitations.

For more details on the campaign, visit the official EDCEWeek website.

This publication has been created in the context of a learning mobility as part of the project PrismaEU OG 2026/101235778. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

Publication - ChildACT+ Cross-Country Collection of Best Practices

2026-09-07T11:45:22.996+03:00

The ChildACT+ Cross-Country Collection of Best Practices brings together practical examples of how children and young people can meaningfully participate in decisions that affect their lives. Drawing on research conducted across the five project countries, as well as selected examples from other European contexts, the collection highlights mechanisms and initiatives that show evidence of impact, sustainability, and potential for transfer to other communities. Rather than offering an exhaustive overview, it is designed as a practical source of inspiration for municipalities, schools, civil society organisations, and other actors looking to strengthen inclusive and effective child participation.

Published in September 2026 | Read here

Publication - Child participation in public decision-making in Romania - Child-ACT+

2026-09-03T13:50:48.322+03:00

The ChildACT+ Romania National Report explores how children and young people currently participate in public decision-making in Romania, looking at both the legal and institutional framework and how participation works in practice. Drawing on desk research, interviews, focus groups, and local-level evidence, the report maps existing participation mechanisms, identifies key barriers and inclusion gaps, and highlights promising approaches already being implemented across the country. It also outlines priority reforms needed to make children’s participation more consistent, meaningful, inclusive, and better connected to actual public decisions.

Published in September 2026 | Read here

Events - Concluding our Youth Exchange in Slovakia: Co-Creating #EDCEWeek26

2026-08-30T16:35:55.164+03:00

Key Information

Dates: 23/08/2026 - 30/08/2026
Location: Herlany, Slovakia (rural area)
Participants: 36 young leaders from 7 countries

About our Journey

Between 23-30 August 2026, 36 dedicated participants from 7 European countries gathered in the village of Herlany, Slovakia, for a focused initiative on digital citizenship:

Digital Citizens in Action: Co-creating #EDCEWeek26

The PRISMA European Network collaborated with a strong consortium of partners to implement this Youth Exchange, bringing together representatives from GEYC (Romania), Youth for Youth (Slovakia), EuroMuevete (Spain), Growth Hub (Greece), Dynamic Youth Association (Hungary), Tavo Europa (Lithuania), and EUActive (Austria).

The mobility relied on non-formal education methods, ensuring that learning was both practical and engaging. Through workshops, simulations, and creative labs, young leaders explored the mechanisms behind fake news, discussed online hate speech, and developed concrete campaigning skills.

The aim was to transition participants from passive learners into active facilitators and organizers, equipping them with the project management and content creation tools necessary to implement impactful digital democracy events in their local communities.

This project was implemented within GEYC’s Erasmus+ accreditation under project reference 2026-1-RO01-KA151-YOU-000390817.

Objectives & Outcomes

The primary aim of the project was to equip young leaders with the skills necessary to navigate and positively influence the digital space. The core objectives included:

Tackling disinformation: understanding the mechanisms behind fake news and learning to counter it through critical media literacy.
Promoting digital citizenship: ensuring youth comprehend their online rights, responsibilities, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
Fostering co-creation: guiding participants through a transition from passive learners to active facilitators capable of organizing impactful community events.

The mobility resulted in concrete outcomes. Over the course of the week, participants developed verified Youthpass competencies, project management skills, and a portfolio of multimedia campaigns designed to combat disinformation. They arrived as participants and left as capable event organizers ready for #EDCEWeek26.

Highlights of the Week

Digital reality checks: national teams analyzed Eurostat data, examined viral fake news cases from their home countries, and critically assessed their governments' current digital policies.
Defending digital freedom: drawing from the Council of Europe’s Bookmarks manual, teams reviewed complex case studies on online hate speech, debating solutions and voting on ethical outcomes.
Content creation labs: working in intercultural groups, participants brainstormed, filmed, and edited short-form video campaigns, later utilizing Canva to design educational carousels.
Developing organizational skills: participants took the lead by practicing public speaking and facilitation, ultimately pitching their own local event plans and navigating surprise crisis-management scenarios to build resilience.
Rural digital detox: to balance the intensive screen-based work, the group participated in a hike through rural Slovakia, offering a space for cultural exchange and mental recovery.

Highlights from the Ground

Check out some of our favorite moments and digital creations directly from the project participants:

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What is Next?

The Youth Exchange was just the beginning.

The event plans our PRISMA Ambassadors developed in Slovakia are now being put into action across Europe as part of the broader campaign.

Discover #EDCEWeek26