On November 15th, 2024, thirty selected participants among current and former IVY volunteers gathered in Brussels for the Youth 4 Future Cooperation event, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to youth engagement and empowerment. The invitation came directly from the European Commission’s DG Regio, whose goal was to gather different youth-engaged groups to discuss their perspectives and priorities about the next funding period for territorial cooperation.
Two preparation meetings were held online before this event, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives could flourish. The discussions were rich and insightful, reflecting the plurality of participants and their unique experiences: these dialogues have laid the groundwork for meaningful group recommendations to help shape Interreg’s post-2027 funding period.
The panel discussions highlighted the importance of territoriality in youth engagement and the need for bridging concepts and perspectives among youth across Europe. The outcomes will serve as vital recommendations from the youth, ensuring their voices are heard in future policy-making processes. The European Commission values the youth perspective – considering the results for shaping the policies shows great trust in the young adults invited.
More than 100 young people attended the event, held at the premises of DG Regio. We are honoured to have former IVYs among the panellists or involved in other groups such as the Cross-Border Ambassadors, showcasing the added value of having a volunteering experience in territorial cooperation.
This event is just the beginning. Some among the participants, including the IVY Volunteers and IVY Alumni, will further their engagement during the upcoming Interreg GO! event on March 27 and 28, 2025, in the twin cities of Gorizia (IT) and Nova Gorica (SI). This event will feature a Youth for Cooperation side event at the University of Trieste’s Gorizia premises, building upon the outcomes of the Interreg post-2027 consultations.
We thank each and every one of the IVYs who took the time to go to Brussels and extend our heartfelt thanks to all organisers and participants for their invaluable contributions, enriching our discussions and strengthening our community.
Together, we are committed to fostering democracy, participation, and the empowerment of young voices across Europe. Join us as we continue this important journey promoting cooperation across borders, together.
