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Description
The rapid development of urbanization, the economic crisis and the increase in social inequalities have created a gap in the social capital of Greece, the aversion of young people to politics and the lack of self-awareness as active citizens. In addition, the difficulty of accessing decision-making centers enhances the sense of frustration and abstinence from participatory policy-making processes. In particular, in rural or remote areas, citizens often feel isolated and excluded, while education is not a priority. Responding to the above and arguing that "the foundation of democracy is the belief in the ability of citizens to decide freely and responsibly on public affairs" (Octavio Paz, Nobel Prize in Literature), the CSO proposes an educational project of active participation of young citizens in public affairs and the strengthening of the regional policy strategy for the youth. Activities include the creation of educational material through an online platform, live and remote skills development activities, organized promotion planning and dissemination activities. The proposal is addressed to young people aged 18-30, who live in remote or rural areas of the Greek territory and do not have easy and direct access to democratic procedures and decision-making bodies and centers. Indirect target groups are municipalities and local communities, as the recently acquired know-how will be transferred as a good practice in the respective areas. It is worth noting that educational material that will be produced will be available to the general public.