Project: Participation Matters!

“Participation Matters!” is a youth-led initiative to empower young people (aged 18–30) with knowledge and tools to actively engage in EU decision-making processes. It aims to inform participants about the benefits of EU citizenship, how its institutions function, and the programmes and tools available for civic engagement. The project also focuses on improving non-formal education activities and strengthening partnerships among participating organisations.
Participants from Italy, Greece, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and Spain will engage in local activities to identify pressing issues that the EU should address, guided by the EU Youth Goals. These activities will be interspersed with three international mobility events in Greece, Poland, and Italy. During these events, participants will combine their findings, identify a priority topic, and explore mechanisms such as the European Citizens’ Initiative to address it. They will also interact with local policymakers and EU representatives.
The project aims to transform participants into EU “ambassadors,” capable of informing peers about EU programmes and fostering active citizenship. Participants will learn about EU history, policies, institutions, and tools for civic engagement, alongside soft skills such as teamwork, public speaking, and event organisation. The project also promotes tolerance, diversity, and intercultural communication while enhancing organisational and digital skills, ultimately creating a more informed and participatory youth community across Europe.