Empowering Vulnerable Youth for Active Citizenship: A Transnational Approach to Participation and Societal Challenges

forthcoming

EVY-PACT aims to foster a culture of participatory democracy by empowering young people—especially those from marginalized and underrepresented backgrounds such as youth with migrant origins, the LGBTQIA+ community, young people with disabilities, and those from rural or peripheral urban areas—to engage actively in civic life and democratic processes at local, national, and EU levels. The project addresses key barriers to participation, including social exclusion, lack of civic education, and limited institutional dialogue. Through civic education in schools and training centers, participatory workshops, youth-led initiatives, and awareness campaigns, EVY-PACT will strengthen young people’s knowledge of their rights and responsibilities as EU citizens and support their direct involvement in elections and policy-making. By promoting structured dialogue between youth and institutions—such as local authorities and youth councils—the project will bridge the gap between young citizens and decision-making bodies. EVY-PACT will also facilitate transnational exchanges and advocacy efforts to scale youth participation across Europe. Aligned with CERV Programme Priority 3, the project contributes to strengthening democratic participation, promoting inclusive civic engagement, and fostering cooperation between civil society and public institutions. Ultimately, EVY-PACT seeks to build a generation of engaged, responsible, and empowered European citizens.