In April 2025, Timișoara became a meeting point for youth workers eager to better understand democracy, citizenship, and their role in shaping the future of the European Union. From 8 to 11 April 2025, 21 participants joined the EUth in Action mobility, a programme organised by the Timiș County Youth Foundation (FITT) at the Youth House — Romania’s only youth centre certified by the Council of Europe.
The training brought together young workers from across Europe who are curious about the European Union’s democratic processes and motivated to take an active part in civic life. Through interactive workshops, debates, and simulations, participants explored how EU institutions work, how decisions are made, and how young citizens can influence the policies that affect their everyday lives.
Over four intensive days, the group delved into the core of European democracy — from understanding the balance of competences between EU institutions to discussing the European Green Deal as a key policy example. Sessions were built on non-formal education methods, ensuring that learning remained experiential, collaborative, and rooted in real-life contexts.
One of the highlights of the programme was the workshop on media literacy and fake news, where participants learned to critically evaluate information sources, identify misinformation, and understand the impact of digital media on democratic participation. These sessions encouraged reflection on the responsibility of citizens to stay informed and to contribute constructively to public debates.
In addition to the educational sessions, intercultural learning played a central role. Through shared activities and cultural evenings, participants exchanged perspectives on civic engagement, environmental challenges, and youth participation in their home countries. These interactions helped them realise that while their local realities may differ, the values of democracy, solidarity, and equality remain universal.
The final day concluded with a simulation of a European decision-making process, where participants applied their newly acquired knowledge by debating and voting on policy proposals related to sustainability and youth involvement. The experience empowered them to see democracy not as an abstract concept, but as a living process that depends on the participation of each individual.
For FITT, EUth in Action was more than a learning event — it was a reaffirmation of the organisation’s long-standing commitment to promoting civic education and active youth participation. By combining accessible learning methods with meaningful dialogue, the mobility helped transform complex European topics into concrete actions and attitudes young people can apply in their communities.
Project co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union.