Hi, my name is Karolína Kolenková, I am from Košice in Slovakia and I spent almost 6 months with Joint Secretariat of Interreg NEXT Hungary-Slovakia-Romania-Ukraine in Budapest, Hungary. As someone with a master’s degree in ecological and environmental sciences, I deeply appreciate the importance of working within cross-border regions. Just as a river or mountain range does not stop at a border, maintaining their beauty and vitality requires the cooperation of everyone involved. This is the essence of territorial cooperation for me, bringing people, communities, and institutions together to address shared challenges and protect what connects us. Whether it’s preserving natural habitats, supporting sustainable development, or fostering cultural exchange, territorial cooperation demonstrates that the best solutions come from working beyond borders.
As an IVY Reporter supporting the consultation on the future of Interreg, why do you think it’s important to involve citizens in shaping the future of Territorial Cooperation?
I believe that involving citizens in shaping the future of Territorial Cooperation is essential because it ensures that the programs truly reflect the needs and priorities of the people they are meant to help. Citizens bring local knowledge and diverse perspectives that can help create more inclusive and impactful initiatives. Territorial Cooperation is about bridging borders, and who better to guide this process than the communities who live and work in these regions every day? With the workshops we did, we met young people who were generally excited about opportunities Interreg and also IVY, can bring into their lives. It also showed us that engaging citizens early builds interest and fosters a sense of belonging, which is vital for the success and sustainability of these programs.
The 12th edition of “Stories of European Cooperation” focuses on European values, and you contributed an article on Freedom. Could you share a bit about your experience writing this piece and why readers should check out the full publication?
Writing the article on Human Rights and Freedom of Movement was an educational experience because it gave me the opportunity to reflect on how this value connects to cross-border cooperation. Freedom is not just about mobility or rights, it's also about the freedom to collaborate and find shared solutions to common challenges. While gathering information about the project, I gained a deeper appreciation for how freedom enables creativity and partnership in addressing local and regional issues. I encourage everyone to read the full publication because it showcases a variety of inspiring stories that highlight the impact of European values on real communities. It’s a testament to what we can achieve when we work together across borders. The publication offers insights into how cooperation across borders strengthens unity.
What are your plans now that your IVY experience is coming to an end?
As my IVY experience comes to an end, I’d like to continue working in cross-border cooperation and regional development. I’m interviewing and assessing all the options I have, I know it will be a hard decision to decide where life will take me next. I’m also exploring opportunities to use my background in environmental and ecological sciences to support sustainable development initiatives. I’d like to stay connected with the IVY Alumni network and continue to be involved in projects that align with Interreg’s vision. Wherever I go, I hope to carry forward what I’ve learned during my time as an IVY volunteer and contribute to fostering collaboration and innovation in my future work.
What advice would you give to other young people interested in territorial cooperation?
Don’t hesitate to get involved! Territorial cooperation offers an incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and make a real impression. Be open to new cultures and perspectives, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas. Programs like IVY are a great way to gain hands-on experience and build connections that can last a lifetime. Most importantly, believe in the power of collaboration, great things happen when people work together across borders. Remember, every small contribution you make helps strengthen the spirit of cooperation, and the skills and experiences you gain will shape you personally and professionally in ways you can’t imagine.
Thank you Karolína for sharing your passion, ideas and great input with us!