Think Local, Act European: Promoting Democratic Participation and Digital Literacy Empowering Citizens

ongoing

This project aims to foster democratic engagement and digital citizenship in the EU by enhancing appreciation for the EU locally and advancing digital citizenship education. Through interactive walks, contests, events, and workshops, the project will showcase the EU's positive impact on local communities, highlighting EU policies and values. To advance digital citizenship, the project will promote digital literacy, online safety, and ethical participation through educational initiatives targeting the youth of participant towns. Workshops will equip teachers and NGOs with tools to instil digital citizenship. The project addresses current challenges around civic participation, social cohesion, and digital skills by intertwining EU identity and digital citizenship. Outcomes include greater public awareness of the EU’s local benefits, strengthened civil society capacity, and youth empowerment with digital citizenship skills. The project aligns with the 2025 European Year of Digital Citizenship Education and will foster informed, resilient, and active citizens. With targeted community engagement and educational campaigns, the project aims for a multi-layered impact: enhancing local appreciation of the EU, promoting inclusion and cohesion, developing digital literacy, and laying the groundwork for vibrant democratic participation. This project represents a comprehensive effort to reinvigorate grassroots democratic engagement and citizenship education using innovative methods. The complementary focus on EU identity and digital citizenship seeks to empower citizens to navigate today’s complex information ecosystem while actively contributing to democratic societies. Investing in citizens, this project safeguards democracy against misinformation, extremism and low electoral participation threats. The ultimate aim is a European community united by shared values and equipped with the awareness, skills and solidarity to thrive in an increasingly digital world.