In March 2024, a meaningful Erasmus+ training titled “European Values, Active Democracy and Engagement” (EVADE) took place in Tbilisi, Georgia. This international initiative gathered youth workers from various European and neighboring countries, offering a unique space to explore the role of young people in shaping democratic societies. The training was organized as a response to current socio-political changes, misinformation, and the growing gap between young people and active democratic participation. Its aim was to prepare youth workers with knowledge, tools, and a supportive network to engage young people in democratic processes, promote European values, and foster human rights.
In Ukraine, the local context has made projects like EVADE not just relevant but deeply necessary. For years, the country has faced political instability, armed conflict, and significant social transformation. As misinformation continues to spread and civic trust struggles to recover, youth have found it difficult to connect with political processes or believe in the power of democratic change. Many young people feel disengaged or hopeless when it comes to their role in society. At the same time, there is a growing need for educated, motivated, and empowered young leaders who understand their rights and responsibilities, and who can inspire others in their communities. The role of youth workers in Ukraine is more important than ever, especially when it comes to human rights and civic engagement.
The EVADE training in Tbilisi was a life-changing opportunity for one of the youth workers representing the Ukrainian NGO UNIT. The training offered more than just theoretical discussions—it created a shared space for real stories, cultural exchange, and practical learning. For many participants, it was the first time to connect directly with colleagues from different countries, to learn about their challenges, and to discover creative approaches to youth work. The workshops focused on active citizenship, European values, and practical tools for engaging young people in civic life. One of the most eye-opening parts of the training was the session on democratic education through storytelling. Youth workers shared personal stories of how they supported young people during times of crisis, creating a feeling of shared responsibility and inspiration. There were also field visits in Tbilisi where participants met with local organizations working on democracy education and human rights, learning how small-scale actions can have a large impact when driven by passion and collaboration.
During informal evening discussions, participants explored common challenges like youth apathy, lack of trust in politicians, and the difficulties of building inclusive communities. From these conversations, a new idea started to grow. The Ukrainian participant began to shape a new project back home—something that would combine democratic education with storytelling, based on what was learned during EVADE. After returning to Ukraine, a new youth initiative was launched under UNIT, focused on promoting Civic Engagement and Human Rights through personal narratives. The project was called “Voices of Change” and included a series of workshops where young people shared their experiences of living in a changing Ukraine, explored their rights, and discussed ways to actively participate in their communities.
This initiative was directly inspired by the energy and tools gained in Tbilisi. The first event gathered over 30 young people from small towns in eastern Ukraine. Through interactive activities, they learned how civic engagement begins with everyday actions—from voting and volunteering to speaking out against injustice. They also created a digital collection of personal stories highlighting their dreams, struggles, and hopes for a democratic Ukraine. These stories were shared on social media and presented at a local event where community leaders and educators were invited to listen and engage.
The impact was clear and immediate. Participants reported feeling more confident, connected, and motivated to be active citizens. Some of them later started volunteering in their local youth centers or organizing peer discussions in schools. Teachers and parents noticed a positive change in how the young people communicated and expressed their opinions. Local government representatives who attended the final event said it helped them better understand youth perspectives and promised to support further initiatives. For the NGO UNIT, this was a confirmation that investing in youth empowerment and democratic education works—and that international projects like EVADE can create long-term change even after participants return home.
Looking back, the journey to Tbilisi and the time spent learning, sharing, and dreaming with others felt like planting seeds of hope and action. It proved that youth workers can play a powerful role in building a more democratic and inclusive future. When young people are given space to speak, tools to act, and the belief that their voice matters, change becomes possible. The experience also showed that democracy is not just about elections or laws—it is about everyday choices, mutual respect, and shared values. It starts with a conversation, a story, a workshop, or a handshake between cultures.
The vision for the future is full of promise. Youth across Ukraine and beyond have the energy, creativity, and courage to be changemakers. With the right support, they can become builders of a more inclusive and peaceful society. Programs like EVADE are not just trainings—they are turning points. They remind youth workers why their mission matters and how powerful it is to connect people from different countries for a common purpose. The journey continues, and every new conversation brings another step toward a better world—one that listens, includes, and empowers all voices.