In May 2025, a youth worker from Italy, representing the NGO Terra Dulcis, took part in an international Erasmus+ project called “ICT4Rights: Digital Advocacy and Inclusion for All.” The project took place in Benalmádena, Spain, and brought together youth workers, educators, and community leaders from across Europe to learn how technology can be used to promote human rights, digital inclusion, and ethical practices online. In today’s digital world, where young people grow up with smartphones and social media, the need to protect human rights in online spaces is more important than ever. The ICT4Rights project gave participants the tools to support vulnerable groups, reduce the digital divide, and lead positive change in their local communities.
Before joining this project, the youth worker had noticed several challenges in Italy, especially in rural areas and smaller towns. While young people are often active online, many of them do not understand the risks or rights connected to their digital life. In schools and youth centers, topics like data protection, online privacy, or responsible use of artificial intelligence were often missing from the curriculum. There were growing concerns about cyberbullying, misinformation, and the lack of safe digital spaces for marginalised youth, especially those with disabilities or from minority backgrounds. The gap between those who have access to digital tools and those who don’t was still very visible. Although the internet is everywhere, not everyone could use it in a way that helps them feel informed, empowered, and safe. This situation called for new ideas and stronger youth support, which is why the ICT4Rights project felt so timely and necessary.
Arriving in Benalmádena felt like stepping into a space full of ideas, motivation, and cooperation. The training brought together people from different countries and backgrounds, but all shared one goal: to learn how to defend and promote human rights in the digital world. One of the most eye-opening moments during the training was a session focused on the connection between technology and fundamental freedoms like the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and access to education. The group explored how these rights can be protected, but also how they can be violated through surveillance, data misuse, or poorly designed platforms. Another inspiring part of the program was learning about responsible AI. While artificial intelligence is already used in many parts of life, very few young people understand how it works or how it affects them. The trainers encouraged participants to look at AI critically and to ask how digital tools can be more ethical and fair.
The training also introduced several best practices from across Europe. In one workshop, a local Spanish organization shared how they created digital literacy campaigns for immigrant youth. Another session focused on how to build inclusive platforms that respect the needs of people with disabilities. Participants also had the chance to exchange ideas with youth workers from other countries, hearing how they use technology for community building, advocacy, and support networks. This international exchange made everyone feel connected and part of something larger than their local realities. It helped the youth worker from Terra Dulcis see that digital inclusion is not only about having access to a computer or phone, but also about education, empowerment, and social justice.
Returning to Italy after the project, the youth worker felt inspired to take action. The first step was organizing a series of digital workshops for young people in the town of Avellino, where Terra Dulcis is based. These workshops focused on three key areas: understanding digital rights, creating safe online behavior, and using social media for good. Each session included interactive activities, simple explanations of complex topics like the GDPR or digital footprints, and time for open discussion. The workshops were co-designed with young people from the community to make sure the content felt real and useful. The youth worker also created partnerships with local schools and libraries to make sure that the initiative reached students from different backgrounds, especially those who might be digitally excluded or at risk of cyberbullying.
Another important action that followed the training was the creation of an online youth guide called “My Digital Rights.” This guide, written in simple Italian and designed in collaboration with young volunteers, explains basic digital rights and responsibilities. It includes real-life examples and tips for staying safe online. The guide also talks about how to report digital abuse and where to get support if needed. It was shared on social media and printed for youth centers, schools, and parents who want to better understand the challenges their children face in the digital world. The ICT4Rights training gave the youth worker the knowledge and confidence to turn this idea into reality.
The impact of these efforts became visible within a few months. Young people who attended the workshops started to speak more openly about online problems they faced, like fake news, peer pressure, or data sharing. Teachers and parents began asking for more resources on these topics. The local council invited the youth worker to speak at a community forum about digital citizenship. Slowly, digital rights became a topic of everyday conversation in a town where, just a year before, it was barely mentioned. Young participants expressed how much they appreciated having a space where they could ask questions, share stories, and feel listened to without judgment. One young girl who had experienced online harassment said the workshops helped her feel stronger and more supported.
Beyond the local impact, the youth worker also stayed in touch with other participants from the ICT4Rights project. Together, they joined a European working group focused on responsible tech education. Through regular online meetings, they continued to share materials, update each other on new projects, and explore ways to create cross-border initiatives. This ongoing collaboration is one of the most valuable results of the Erasmus+ experience. It shows that building a better digital world is not the work of one person or one organization, but a shared mission that connects many youth workers across Europe.
Looking ahead, the experience in Benalmádena and the work that followed it are just the beginning. The youth worker from Terra Dulcis now believes more than ever that digital justice is part of human rights. In a world where technology changes quickly, young people need strong guidance, safe spaces, and honest conversations. Youth workers have the responsibility and the opportunity to lead this change. With the tools learned during the ICT4Rights training, they are now better prepared to do so. The hope is that every community in Europe will one day see digital inclusion not as a luxury, but as a basic right for all. Change starts locally, but with the support of international cooperation and passionate individuals, it can grow into something much bigger. Young people are ready to lead this change — all they need is the chance to be heard and the knowledge to take action.