Youth from Teleorman Closer to Europe: An Erasmus+ Project for Engagement, Inclusion, and Promotion of European Values
Between August 2023 and May 2025, an ambitious project brought the voice of young people from Teleorman County into the spotlight, offering them real opportunities for involvement in European democratic life, personal and professional development, and connecting with the values of the European Union.
The main goal of the project was to increase youth participation at the European level, by promoting dialogue with European institutions and encouraging initiatives that contribute to achieving the European Union’s objectives. One of the most important results of the project was the training of 20 European Values Ambassadors, active young people who will continue to develop projects in their communities.
Main Activities of the Project
Over nearly two years, the project included three central activities and a series of workshops and interactive sessions:
Active Participation Workshops at the European Level – held in March-April 2024 in Roșiori de Vede, involving 90 young people in discussions, exercises, and simulations about their role in the European decision-making process.
“From Local to European Participation” Mobility – held in June 2024 in Brussels, Belgium, providing a group of 20 young people the opportunity to directly experience the workings of European institutions.
Consultation with the Community and Local, National, and European Decision-Makers – an activity held in April 2025, where 60 young people had the chance to express their views to authorities, experts, and learn about the importance of the European Union.
Complementary Initiatives with Strong Impact
Two projects developed and implemented within the framework of the European Solidarity Corps and Erasmus+ complemented the efforts to engage young people:
“From the Past for the Future” – promoted local cultural heritage through a community festival dedicated to folk traditions, with workshops on crafts, music, dance, and themed exhibitions.
“The Road to Inclusion” – aimed at a group of 15 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, this project provided support for participation in the DiscoverEU initiative, including orientation sessions, personal development, and logistical preparation.
Final Event – A Moment for Reflection and Civic Responsibility
The highlight of the project was the final conference, which brought together 60 young people, representatives of the local community, decision-makers, and prominent guests in a space for dialogue and reflection on European values and the future of democracy.
The event included significant presentations:
- Official opening and presentation of the Se Poate Association Branch;
- Speech by Mr. Cârciumaru Valerică, Mayor of Roșiori de Vede, who emphasized the importance of youth involvement in public life;
- Presentation of the FLEP project and the launch of the guide ABC of European Institutions – an educational tool for young people;
- Thematic impactful interventions:
- Francesca Cristea (Europlus) – institutions of the European Union;
- Mihai Ghigiu – MP, The Democratic Future in Romania and Europe;
- Maria Adelina Sfăt, County Councilor Teleorman, and Diana Cațan, Head of Service at the Teleorman Prefecture – The Democratic Context of Romania and EU Membership;
- Nicolae Țîbrigan – Populism and Manipulation of Public Opinion in Romania;
- Lucian Mîndruță – Extremism and Democracy;
- Oana Țoiu – MP, National Identity vs. Globalism;
- Interactive Q&A session.
- Francesca Cristea (Europlus) – institutions of the European Union;
The atmosphere was dynamic, with exchanges of ideas, debates, and moments of inspiration. The conference successfully conveyed a clear message: young people are ready to actively contribute to the democratic future of Europe.
The ABCs of the EU Institutions can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/4jyvKck
Conclusions and Impact
The project achieved its goal of transforming young people into informed, engaged, and confident citizens in their own potential. Through the activities carried out and by disseminating the results in the high schools of Roșiori de Vede, the initiative not only informed but also mobilized a young generation, ready to take part in building a more inclusive, more supportive, and more people-centered Europe.
