In a nutshell
Youth Bridges Europe was an exciting international exchange with 68 young people aged 16 to 27residing in Germany, France, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Together, we will explore how democracy, youth participation, conflicts, reconciliation, and memorialisation shape the Europe we live in today.
The project unfolded across two youth exchanges: the first in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 1–6 October 2025, and the second in Germany from 15–19 April 2026.
Together, participants reflected on Europe’s past and democratic future, learned from real stories and lived experiences, and developed practical skills in critical thinking, civic action, media literacy, and meaningful youth participation.
What was Youth Bridges Europe about?
Through hands-on workshops, site visits such as the Screbenica Memorial Centre and the National Socialist Documentation Centre in Cologne, intercultural dialogue, and reflection activities, participants explored how young people can shape democratic societies, especially in post-conflict contexts.
The project connected the past and present by examining Bosnia and Herzegovina’s reconciliation process, civic remembrance, EU integration, democratic participation tools, and the role of young people in building a future they believe in.
During the programme, special attention was given to the perspectives of marginalised groups and to the importance of inclusive youth participation.
After each exchange…
After each exchange, participants were invited to share their reflections, experiences, and lessons learned by co-authoring blogs that will be published on the International Democracy Community website.
These stories help continue the conversation beyond the exchange itself and give young people a platform to reflect on democracy, remembrance, reconciliation, and their own role in shaping Europe’s future.
