Category Archives: News

Pilot workshops by Learning Library

Pilot workshops by Learning Library

In September 2024, as part of the EYT project “Do You Know Your Democracy?”, Learning Library conducted a pilot workshop with youth leaders to gather feedback and finalize the handbook titled “Democracy: Its Importance and Our Local Communities as Democratic Societies.”

 

This handbook was initially developed in June during an international training session in Struga, North Macedonia. It comprises of ten educational workshops covering topics such as the meaning of democracy, utopian versus real-world democracy, grassroots activism, democratic values, building democratic communities, civic engagement on democratic issues, the significance of democracy, and the role of young people in fostering more democratic societies.

 

After all partner organisations complete their pilot workshops, the final version of the handbook is scheduled for publication in October 2024.

 

Keep an eye on the project website, to stay up to date with the news on this project

Youth Hub Empowers Malmö’s Young Adults to Connect with Democracy and Community

Youth Hub Empowers Malmö’s Young Adults to Connect with Democracy and Community

The recent Youth Hub at Boost by FC Rosengård on August 27, 2024, brought together young adults from Malmö to explore democracy in new and meaningful ways. Organised by Wellbeing Lab as part of the “Do You Know YOUR DEMOCRACY?” project, this workshop focused on helping participants reflect on their role within a democratic society and in their own communities.

 

Through a series of engaging activities, the workshop encouraged participants to connect with democratic principles on both personal and societal levels. The day began with a guided meditation accompanied by rosemary essential oil, inviting participants to centre themselves and imagine democracy as a value they can embody daily. This unique approach to democracy resonated with participants, many of whom were experiencing meditation and reflective practices for the first time.

 

The session included discussions on topics such as embracing diverse perspectives, cancel culture, and the importance of listening to differing opinions—a key aspect of healthy democratic societies. An inspirational talk on following one’s passions and exploring Erasmus+ opportunities sparked curiosity about studying abroad and pursuing careers connected to community and democratic engagement.

 

Each participant received a “Malmö Heart” poster as a memento and a reflective writing assignment to take home, encouraging them to think about what democracy and community mean in their lives. The Youth Hub received positive feedback, with participants expressing interest in future sessions, reflecting the workshop’s success in fostering a supportive and engaging space for young adults to connect with democratic ideals and envision their role in Malmö’s community.

Global perspectives of democracy – August 2024 update from Estonia

Global perspectives of democracy – August 2024 update from Estonia

The meeting began by reminding on the results of the previous meeting and additionally exploring the backbone of Estonia’s governance – its political structure. Using an engaging mix of visuals and interactive discussions, the participants navigated the country’s branches of government: the executive, legislative, and judicial. They explored Estonia’s parliamentary system, examining the role of the Riigikogu (parliament) and the presidency. The group was particularly intrigued by Estonia’s digital voting system, which led to an interesting conversation about technology in governance and the future of electoral systems worldwide.

 

Next, the focus shifted to how democracy takes shape in everyday life. Participants brainstormed key indicators of democracy, such as voter participation, freedom of the press, and civil liberties. One participant highlighted Estonia’s high internet penetration as a tool for promoting freedom of information, while another pointed out the challenges of ensuring equitable access to such resources. The discussions became personal when participants shared stories about what democracy meant to them, creating different perspectives that deepened everyone’s understanding of democratic pluralism.

 

The final segment brought a contemporary lens to Estonia’s democracy. Participants worked in small groups to analyse recent news articles and reports, uncovering updates on the country’s democratic processes. Topics ranged from the increasing role of youth in politics to Estonia’s stance on global democratic issues. This segment inspired participants to think critically about how current events shape the broader democratic landscape. This meeting wasn’t just a deep dive into Estonia’s democracy but it was a journey into the heart of what it means to live in and contribute to a democratic society.

How Estonian political system functions: July 2024 update from Digital Hub Estonia

How Estonian political system functions: July 2024 update from Digital Hub Estonia

On July 16, 2024, Learning Library from Estonia hosted its third digital hub meeting, engaging 19 participants in a deep dive into the Estonian political system. The session covered the structure of government, electoral processes, and the innovative concepts of E-Government and E-Democracy, culminating in discussions on local community involvement and online voting.

 

 

The third topic-based meeting of digital hub hosted by Learning Library in Estonia took place on 16th of July 2024, in duration of 120 minutes. In total 19 participants were present, out of wich 11 female and 8 male participants.

 

The topic of the meeting was understanding the Estonian political system. In the first part of the meeting, participants had a chance to explore overview of the Estonia’s government structure, learn more about electoral processes in Estonia, explore functions and roles of municipalities in Estonia. After the short break, participants learned and discussed about E-Government and E-Democracy in Estonia and voting online. In the last part of the meeting, participants discussed and shared their previous involvement in decisions-making processes at different levels and got practical information about possibilities to get more active in their local community.

Call for participants: TC on disinformation, media and manipulation with media

Call for participants: TC on disinformation, media and manipulation with media

Call for participants: “Disinformation, media and manipulation with media in democratic societies and how to stay democratic in these times”

 

04-14 October 2024 | Avrillé-les-Ponceaux, France

 

Consortium of partner organisations is looking for 30 participants from participating countries to join the international training course on the project “Do you know your DEMOCRACY?“ in Avrillé-les-Ponceaux, France from 04th to 14th October 2024.

 

DATES: 04 – 14 October 2024

LOCATION: Avrillé-les-Ponceaux, France

PARTICIPANTS: 6 per country

COUNTRIES: North Macedonia – Croatia – Sweden – France – Estonia

 

This mobility will be focused on raising competences of the youth leaders in topics of disinformation and its connection to democracy, media literacy, media manipulations and how to recognise them. Youth leaders will learn the definitions of these terms, explore examples of good practice and give suggestions and recommendations to experts for developing a Handbook on these topics with concrete 10 workshops that youth leaders can implement in their local communities for youngsters, especially NEET and youth facing economic difficulties.

 

The working language of the event will be English.

 

Profile of participants:

 

  • Young individuals aged 18+ residing in partner organizations’ countries.
  • Possess at least a communicative level of English language, enabling them to actively engage in preparatory meetings, the training course, and subsequent activities.
  • Motivated to work on the development of their personal and professional competencies in an international setting (communication, teamwork, problem-solving, conflict management, facilitation, and presentation).
  • Exhibit a strong interest in the central theme of the project: democracy, active citizenship, civic engagement
  • Be motivated to participate in a mix-intercultural learning environment, and to contribute to successful project implementation

 

Travel and accommodation:

 

Travel and all related costs will be fully covered by the organisers. Accommodation is also covered by organisers, 3 meals per day and coffee breaks.

Activity is implemented as part of the project “Do you know YOUR DEMOCRACY?”. To learn more about the project click here.

INFOPACK
APPLICATION FORM

Implemented LTTA: Democracy, Its Importance, and Our Local Communities as Democratic Societies

Implemented LTTA: Democracy, Its Importance, and Our Local Communities as Democratic Societies

From June 14th to 24th, 2024, youth leaders, educators and youngsters from 5 countries participated in the training course “Democracy, Its Importance, and Our Local Communities as Democratic Societies.” Activity took place in Struga, North Macedonia, and brought together 30 participants from North Macedonia, France, Sweden, Estonia, Croatia. Event was organized as part of the ongoing EYT project, “Do You Know Your Democracy?”.

During these ten days, participants delved into critical issues facing Europe today, such as shrinking civic space, rising populism, and the spread of fake news related to democracy. They also had the opportunity to explore local initiatives and positive practices from North Macedonia and other participating countries. The training course utilized non-formal learning methodologies, allowing youth leaders to share their experiences and expertise. This approach facilitated a dynamic and engaging learning environment, promoting active participation and exchange of ideas.

This activity was implemented as part of the “Do You Know Your Democracy?” project, an innovative educational initiative aimed at enhancing civic knowledge and engagement. Through this project, we strive to empower individuals by providing accessible, comprehensive, and engaging resources about democratic systems, processes, and values.

Utopia and Reality: Young Leaders Hub workshop in Croatia

Utopia and Reality: Young Leaders Hub workshop in Croatia

On July 9, 2024, as part of the Young Leaders Hub Croatia, Carousel8 held the workshop “Democracy in Utopia vs. Democracy in Reality” to encourage young people to imagine their ideal society, understand different types of democracy, and promote collective learning and creativity.

 

After discussing various types and structures of democracy, participants imagined their ideal society and put their ideas on paper. 

 

We discussed different examples of conflicts in communities, how an ideal society would resolve these conflicts, how inclusive the imagined society would be for everyone, and the importance of civic engagement in the community.

 

With many interesting ideas, we had a great time as well!

News from the hub in Croatia: Informative workshop on Solidarity Projects

News from the hub in Croatia: Informative workshop on Solidarity Projects

On June 11th 2024., as part of the Young Leaders Hub Croatia, Carousel8 held an informative workshop on Solidarity Projects! 

 

Our group learned about what solidarity projects are, their main characteristics and goals, and who can apply to implement them. 

 

Through interactive exercises, we explored two important concepts: non-formal learning and solidarity. We also learned how to submit various solidarity actions and initiatives and how to initiate positive changes by independently managing EU-funded projects. 

 

Want to learn more about Solidarity Projects? Visit www.europskesnagesolidarnosti.hr for all the information! 

First meeting of Youth Leaders Hub France

First meeting of Youth Leaders Hub France

In May 2024, Association la Generation de Demain established the club and have organised the first meeting of Youth Leader’s hub that will serve as a platform for young people aged 18-25 to learn, discuss and plan actions related to the topics of democracy and media literacy.

 

Public social stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and influential companies, play a crucial role in shaping social spaces. The discussions of the first meeting emphasised that collaborative efforts involving these stakeholders can lead to more inclusive and transparent decision-making processes. The meeting explored various frameworks that facilitate public consultations, policy dialogues, and multi-stakeholder forums, all aimed at co-creating solutions to social challenges.

The meeting featured a series of activities and discussions designed to foster collaboration and idea exchange among participants. Key highlights included:

  • Roundtable Discussion
    A lively debate centered on how democratic principles can be integrated into the governance of companies operating in social spaces. Participants discussed strategies to promote inclusive and transparent decision-making processes within corporate structures, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue and stakeholder engagement.
  • Collaborative Workshops
    Interactive workshops provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas and share experiences on implementing innovative social practices. These sessions focused on identifying practical solutions to common challenges faced by public and private stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mutual support.
  • Case Study Presentations
    Several case studies were presented to illustrate successful collaborations between luxury companies and other stakeholders. Notably, the Kering Foundation’s work on women’s rights was showcased as a model of how corporate social responsibility can drive positive social change. These presentations offered concrete examples of how businesses can align their operations with broader social and democratic goals.

 

Youth Leader’s hub is implemented as part of the EYT “Do you know your democracy?” project, co-financed by the Europan Union and implemented with our partners from Croatia, North Macedonia, France, and Sweden.

Youth Hub at Malmö Folkhögskola Inspires Reflection on Democracy and Belonging

Youth Hub at Malmö Folkhögskola Inspires Reflection on Democracy and Belonging

On May 24, 2024,  “Do You Know YOUR DEMOCRACY?” project hosted an impactful Youth Hub at Malmö Folkhögskola, drawing in 29 young participants from university preparatory classes. Organised by Well Being LAB, the session engaged students in a blend of self-reflection, civic discussion, and cultural storytelling, fostering an inspiring atmosphere for young people to explore their roles in democracy.

 

The session began with a guided meditation accompanied by soothing music, encouraging participants to connect with their “inner democracy” and visualise how they envision democratic values in the world around them. This calming start paved the way for vibrant discussions on topics such as belonging, cancel culture, and understanding diverse opinions. Students were invited to reimagine their classroom as a democratic space, prompting them to consider how power dynamics play out in everyday settings.

 

One of the highlights was “The Malmö Heart” exercise, where students shared their feelings about Malmö and penned messages for local decision-makers. The exercise provided an authentic space for students to express their hopes for their city, reflecting Malmö’s rich multicultural community.

 

Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many students staying after the session to express their appreciation. This Youth Hub at Malmö Folkhögskola not only deepened participants’ understanding of democracy but also encouraged them to think critically about their roles within their communities.