From 6 to 8 May 2025, KMOP brought together 40 passionate young people from Greece, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Serbia, and Cyprus for a powerful Youth Exchange in Brussels.
Our mission was clear: create a space where youth could confront mental health challenges, strengthen their resilience, and engage as active citizens in shaping a more inclusive and democratic Europe.
We designed this three-day exchange to enhance participants’ awareness of mental health, promote emotional resilience, and develop democratic participation skills. Activities were rooted in non-formal education methods, including structured dialogue, experiential exercises, group reflections, and creative expression.
During the activities, we didn’t just learn—we connected, reflected, and acted. We saw firsthand the energy and determination of a new generation eager to take responsibility for their future and for the communities around them.
Day 1: Facing Shared Challenges, Building Common Ground
We opened the programme with honest conversations, facilitated by KMOP’s Project Manager and Youth Trainer, Sofia Koudouni, about the challenges young people face across Europe. Participants from all seven countries highlighted similar issues as key drivers of anxiety and stress: rising living costs, unaffordable housing, and a lack of job opportunities. But instead of focusing solely on problems, we encouraged participants to imagine solutions—and to see each other as partners in change.
“We came from different places, but it felt like we had been facing the same walls” one participant said.
Day 2: Mental Health and the Strength of Community
Mental health took centre stage on the second day. Referencing the 2023 Flash Eurobarometer, which showed that 59% of young people across the EU have experienced emotional distress, we created a safe environment to share stories and support.
Participants opened up about their personal experience with mental health challenges and engaged in conversation with the mental health professionals within the group around pop psychology, the impact of social media and labelling people with their disorder, allowing for a fruitful exchange.
These sessions demonstrated something crucial: resilient individuals are more likely to engage, and resilient communities are built through empathy, understanding, and collaboration.
Day 3: Experiencing Democracy, Shaping the Future
Our final day offered participants an immersive experience in democracy. In partnership with Stand Up for Europe, we ran a European Parliament simulation. Young people stepped into the roles of MEPs, discussed legislative proposals on CO₂ labelling, debated amendments, and voted on new policies.
Sharon from Ireland shared her excitement:
“The EP simulation was really informative and engaging. It really encouraged debate, discussion, and negotiation. I wish we could use it in Irish high schools. It would be such a powerful way to teach active citizenship”, Sharon from Ireland mentioned.
Elena from Greece agreed:
“Participating in the simulation was informative. It offered a hands-on understanding of EU legislative processes and encouraged meaningful dialogue among participants. It fosters critical thinking and empowers youth to engage with democracy”.
We also visited the House of European History, where young participants explored the continent’s past from a unique, transnational perspective. The museum highlights key events and shared experiences that have both united and divided Europeans over time. Through diverse narratives and interpretations, the visit encouraged young people to reflect on Europe’s complex history, think critically about its present, and consider their role in shaping its future.
Next Steps: Stay Connected, Get Involved
This Youth Exchange is part of KMOP’s ongoing work with youth groups to inspire and support young people as active citizens. We remain committed to fostering social and civic participation by ensuring that all young people have access to the resources, opportunities, and safe spaces they need to engage confidently and meaningfully in society.
Through education, policy & raising awareness, and creative initiatives, KMOP empowers young people to step forward, connect with others, and drive positive change in society.
To learn more about our youth-oriented initiatives in Greece and across Europe or to explore how you can get involved—contact us at [email protected] or follow us on social media:
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