The event “La Giornata della Cooperazione Interreg 2024: la parola ai giovani per il futuro della Coesione”/ “Interreg Cooperation Day 2024: Youth Engagement for the Future of Cohesion Policy” took place on September 5th as the last step of the Consultation process conducted by Beatrice Tassotti, IVY Reporter for the Italian National Contact Point of the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE Programme.

The process consisted of two key phases: a series of video interviews with students held in July 2024 and the seminar itself held on 5 September 2024 at the Hotel Excelsior in Lido di Venezia, in the prestigious setting of the 81th Venice International Film Festival. The event sought to involve students and experts in a conversation about Cohesion Policy and the future of Interreg. Moreover, it provided an opportunity to present circular economy projects funded by the Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE Programme and to raise awareness of the benefits those projects bring to EU regions.

The main goal was to connect young people to the realities of EU cooperation by making them active participants in discussions about the future of Europe, specifically through the lens of Cohesion Policy and Interreg programmes. Through video interviews, live discussions and interactive games students were able to voice their opinions, interact with experts and gain deeper insight into the impact of these programmes.

The seminar served as a platform for students to share their thoughts publicly, with video messages from a former representative of the Youth Council of the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (Giulio Bernasconi) and an Project Administrator of the Interreg Volunteer Youth initiative (Milena Pallotta) adding inspiring insights to the dialogue. A Q&A session and a light lunch facilitated further interaction between participants and experts, fostering engagement on the future direction of EU investments.

The event was promoted through Beatrice’s personal digital and offline channels, on her social media and via her network of contacts collected thanks to previous experiences in the field of youth involvement in international opportunities. This ensured widespread awareness of the relevance of this event and interest in the topics discussed.

With the support of her host organization, Regione del Veneto, logistical and promotional materials were provided. The realization of this event was possible thanks to the financial support of the European Commission and the Association of European Border Regions (AEBR). Thanks to their funding, a professional photographer and video maker (Ilaria Toma) followed the project, a private boat service ensured accessibility for all participants and everyone received a personalized sustainable gadget at the end of lunch.

With a focus on inclusivity and sustainability, the event not only informed young people about EU policies but also encouraged active participation in shaping the future of European cohesion and cooperation.