In March 2025, a meaningful international training took place in Tbilisi, Georgia, bringing together youth workers from across Europe under the Erasmus+ project “Youth Work Approaches to Preventing Radicalization and Extremism.” This experience was more than just a professional exchange—it was a deep reflection on how youth workers can help build stronger, more united communities by guiding young people away from harmful ideologies. Hosted by local and international facilitators, the training focused on equipping youth professionals with tools and knowledge to address the early signs of radicalization and promote resilience, dialogue, and critical thinking among young people.
Representing Hungary, the youth worker from Kreatív Ifjúsági Akadémia Magyarország joined the training with the hope of gaining new insights to bring back home. In recent years, Hungary has faced growing social divisions, political tensions, and a rise in online misinformation. Many young people have felt disconnected from society, particularly those from marginalized or rural backgrounds. This feeling of exclusion has sometimes opened the door to harmful influences and extremist ideas, especially through social media and unmoderated online spaces. Before the training, many local communities in Hungary struggled to recognize and respond to the signs of radicalization among youth. There was a clear need for better prevention methods and a more united response from educators, youth workers, and local authorities.
The training in Yerevan offered a safe space for reflection and skill development. One of the most eye-opening parts of the course was learning how to identify the early warning signs of radicalization—not just by focusing on behavior, but by understanding the deeper causes such as social isolation, identity crises, and emotional vulnerability. Through interactive workshops, participants explored the psychological and social roots of extremism. The session on media literacy was especially impactful. Many youth workers, including those from Hungary, realized how strongly online propaganda and hate speech influence young minds, often without being noticed. The training provided practical tools to teach young people how to critically question online content, recognize manipulation, and build digital resilience.
Another powerful moment came during a local community visit in Yerevan, where participants learned about grassroots initiatives involving schools, families, and youth organizations working together to support at-risk youth. These initiatives showed how important it is to build trust and maintain open dialogue with young people. The training also included role-playing activities, helping participants to practice responding to difficult situations such as extremist rhetoric or tension among youth groups. These exercises were challenging but very real, allowing the Hungarian participant to prepare for similar moments in their own work.
After returning home to Hungary, the participant was inspired to start a local project in cooperation with Kreatív Ifjúsági Akadémia Magyarország. The project aimed to raise awareness about radicalization and promote critical thinking in schools and youth centers. They developed interactive workshops for young people aged 13–18, focusing on how to recognize misinformation, understand the emotions behind certain beliefs, and communicate respectfully with others who have different opinions. These workshops were not just educational—they were creative and engaging, using games, storytelling, and real-life scenarios to connect with youth on a personal level.
In addition, the youth worker organized a training for fellow professionals and educators to share what they had learned in Yerevan. This knowledge transfer helped build a local network of youth professionals committed to early prevention. They also involved parents, who play a crucial role in supporting young people at home. The collaboration with schools and local municipalities made it possible to reach more young people and create a supportive environment where they felt heard and respected.
The impact of this initiative became visible after a few months. Young participants reported feeling more confident when discussing sensitive topics. They learned to ask questions, reflect on their own opinions, and engage in respectful dialogue even during disagreements. Some of them even took the lead in creating peer-to-peer campaigns against online hate speech. Teachers also noticed a positive change in classroom discussions, where students became more open-minded and supportive of one another. Local decision-makers started paying more attention to the importance of youth inclusion, and discussions began about incorporating elements of critical media education into school programs.
The Erasmus+ experience in Yerevan did not just improve the skills of one youth worker—it created a ripple effect that strengthened a whole community’s ability to respond to radicalization and extremism. It also showed that with the right support, young people can become powerful agents of peace and understanding.
Looking forward, there is great hope for what youth workers can achieve when they come together, learn from one another, and act with purpose. The training reminded everyone involved that change does not start with big speeches or complicated policies. It starts with small actions—listening to young people, helping them feel safe, and giving them the tools to think for themselves. By continuing to invest in inclusive, empowering spaces, youth workers in Hungary and beyond can build communities where diversity is celebrated, and extremism has no place.