UP2YOUTH – Democratic Future in Youth Responsible Hands

How does one grow up to be an active citizen? This is a crucial question given that across Europe declining engagement in traditional democratic processes at multiple levels is causing serious concerns regarding the future of democracy. The distance between citizens and their political representatives seems to be constantly increasing. Individuals appear to be less and less willing to become involved in decision-making processes at different levels.

Civic education is the answer, how to empower young generation to be active and participate in democratic processes in countries across the Europe. By following the framework of the EU youth policies for 2020-2030, the project UP2YOUTH responds to the needs and challenges of contemporary civic education of young people.

The aim of project “UP2YOUTH – Democratic Future in Youth Responsible Hands” (UP2YOUTH) is to increasing quality and innovation in youth work through identified and create new more effective practices and tools towards youth civic education, media education and media literacy.

Focus of the project is strengthening youth civic engagement by enhancing education on democratic values, responsible media usage and media literacy, using innovative digital tools like gamified educational platforms.

Vidzeme Planning Region will collaborate closely with organizations recognized as leaders in digital competence and media literacy. This includes the Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, which offers a high-quality media and communication study program for young people. The university is also home to the UNESCO Chair in Media and Information Literacy and Science Literacy.