YOUROPE: Youth building an inclusive European democracy

YOUROPE (Youth for Europe) brings together young people, universities, and communities across Europe to develop new forms of democratic participation. With more than 6,000 participants involved, the project explores how young people can directly influence decision-making and policy, both locally and at the European level.

YOUROPE shows that young people are not only the future, but can also shape the present. By learning and creating together, we are building a fairer Europe.

- dr. Naomi van Stapele, co-applicant

Background

Democratic processes often feel distant or inaccessible to many young people. YOUROPE aims to change this by actively involving young people and underrepresented groups in policy and decision-making. The project focuses on strengthening trust between citizens, educational institutions, and policymakers.

Objective

To actively engage young people and communities in democratic decision-making in Europe.

Target Group

Young people (with a focus on underrepresented groups), universities, local communities, and European policymakers who want to learn how participation can be made more inclusive.

Method

YOUROPE applies the Community-Led Research and Action (CLRA) approach: young people and communities jointly explore issues that matter to them, design solutions, and take action. Through workshops, policy labs, and creative campaigns, ideas are tested and shared with policymakers across Europe.

Results

The project produces youth-inspired roadmaps, policy recommendations, and democratic toolkits. Educational programmes and CitizenArt exhibitions are also developed, where young people share their vision of democracy. Results are disseminated through conferences, universities, and online platforms.

Impact

YOUROPE strengthens the voice of young people in European democracy. It increases their influence, fosters trust between citizens and policymakers, and provides practical tools for participation in education and society. The insights gained feed directly back into education and research at The Hague University of Applied Sciences.

More Information

Website: www.youropeproject.eu

Start and End Date

Start: January 2024
End: December 2026

Funding

Funded by the European Union – Horizon Europe.

Collaboration

21 European partners, including:

• The Hague University of Applied Sciences
• Academica University of Applied Sciences
• Augsburg University
• Coventry University
• The European Wergeland Centre
• Post Bellum
• Tampere University of Applied Sciences
• European Youth Parliament
  (Full list available on the project website)

Team

• dr. Naomi van Stapele, The Hague University of Applied Sciences (co-applicant)
• dr. Laurence Guérin, Academica University of Applied Sciences (co-applicant)

Contact

dr. Naomi van Stapele via [email protected]
Research Group Inclusive Education, The Hague University of Applied Sciences