More information
Description
The interactivity offered by the social networks creates a big gap between the young people and the classic news sources, with direct implications in activism, civic involvement and participation. Formal education does not develop the necessary civic involvement. Over 80% of young people aged 14-29 admit they have not signed a list of political claims, and over 78% have not participated in a demonstration (according to a FES study). There are statistics that portray a lack of knowledge regarding the democratic processes, but also a lack of direct involvement in a functional democracy. This is why for 14 months, the project aims to increase the level of involvement of 100 young people (14 and 24 years old) and 100 teachers from 5 communities under-served in public decision-making processes, by following a curriculum that will provide knowledge, skills and participatory tools, incorporating democratic values, education on the legislative system, the use of democratic levers and the investigation and sound management of the relevant information flow. In addition, the project aims to consolidate a nursery of 200 informed and active citizens from 5 communities served, which will initiate 5 initiatives aimed at promoting decision-making transparency in the public sector. The initiatives will take the form of a public monitoring campaign, the stages of investigation and the taking of measures /proposals respecting the social, economic and political specificity of each community. At the national level, zDemocracy aims to increase knowledge on civil rights and involvement in public decision-making by developing a novel digital web-based educational platform, engaging at least 1000 citizens (20% 14-24 years) in an interactive process. of learning through which users will develop their knowledge and skills of civic participation and critical analysis of information from the media that influence the development of the community.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address significant challenges in civic and political engagement among youth, particularly those in underserved communities. Studies showed that over 80% of young people aged 14-29 had never signed a political petition, and 78% had not participated in demonstrations. In addition to this low level of participation, these communities were disproportionately affected by fake news, with youth aged 14-24 being especially vulnerable due to their heavy reliance on social media.
Over 14 months, the project sought to improve civic engagement among 100 young people and 100 teachers from five underserved communities. It began by developing a comprehensive civic education curriculum designed to teach democratic values, legislative systems, and practical tools for participation. This curriculum was delivered through courses tailored to students and teachers, accompanied by the creation of the educational platform DEMOfit. Civic education events and interactive debates were also organized, offering participants opportunities to apply their knowledge. In addition, a series of podcasts focusing on civic involvement were produced, while students launched their own advocacy initiatives in their communities, such as park renovations and the establishment of a school library.
The project achieved meaningful results. Over 200 participants gained improved civic skills through the courses and DEMOfit platform. At Vidra, students successfully renovated a school park, repairing benches, cleaning the area, and creating signage, with the support of over 180 voters and local authorities. In Beceni, students organized a petition that garnered over 100 signatures, secured local council approval for park renovations, and obtained commitments for future municipal involvement. At Parincea, students initiated a library project, identifying required books and reaching out to publishers and companies for donations. These activities showcased the transformative power of grassroots advocacy and strengthened ties between young people, teachers, and local authorities.