JMI: The Future SOUND of EUROPE

forthcoming

JMI:SOUND is designed to empower and connect young people through music, strengthening youth civil society across Europe. Building on 80 years of experience and a global network of 70+ member organisations, JMI uses music as a tool for participation, inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and democratic engagement. The project seeks to address pressing challenges faced by youth, including exclusion, democratic backsliding, mental health struggles, precarious cultural work, and the demands of digital and green transitions, by scaling up music-based learning, mobility, and advocacy opportunities. Over 2026–2027, the JMI Global Network will deliver thousands of activities annually, reaching over 7 million young people, with a strong focus on those with fewer opportunities. Actions include international music education programs (Ethno, Imagine, YAM), capacity-building for youth workers and organisers, youth-led advocacy labs, digital innovation through Mubazar and Digibazar, campaigns on gender equity (Play It Loud!), and sustainability initiatives (Greenote). The project is structured around six strategic objectives: - Expand access to high-quality, inclusive music education and participation across all boundaries. - Strengthen youth civic engagement and democratic participation through music and dialogue. - Advance gender justice and equity in the youth music sector. - Support digital and AI-driven innovation in youth and music work. - Promote environmental responsibility and sustainability in youth music. - Reinforce the capacity and sustainability of the JMI network in Europe. JMI’s approach combines non-formal learning, peer-to-peer methods, youth-led governance, and structured monitoring & evaluation (via its MEMIS system). The network’s broad membership ensures local anchoring and global reach, while communication campaigns (podcasts, toolkits, thematic campaigns) amplify youth voices and EU values. Ultimately, JMI:SOUND will enhance youth participation, cultural access, and organisational resilience, contributing directly to the EU Youth Strategy’s priorities of inclusion and diversity, participation in democratic life, sustainability, and digital transformation.