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Description
We often hear voices in society that are dissatisfied with current political and social situation. At such times, we can stand still for a while and think over: "What will come up in 4 years?"; "Am I able to change anything?".
The NGO "Mediacijas telpa" acknowledges that youth is a significant part of the future; that we have to work with youth now so that they can later work both for themselves and us. The aim of project "Strong together!" is a strengthening of social involvement of youth and increasing of capacities of disadvantaged groups. It is achieved by providing a continuity for culture of democracy. It will be done by developing a capacity of youth to form an independent opinion; analytical and critical approach to information; ability to lead a respectful and reasoned dialogue as well as skills to avoid conflicts or resolve them constructively and peacefully. During the project an appropriate environment will be created for transferring skills and knowledge to youth. We will also create a platform for developing a support network for vulnerable youth groups.
The implementation and aim of our project and its achievement will directly improve and strengthen other youth NGO`s as well. The result of the project is a successful continuity of our achievements - young people are educated and knowledgeable in culture of democracy; they are able to act actively and pass on their knowledge to others.
Summary of project results
Before the ACF project, the project promoter identified several critical challenges affecting young people in Latvian society and aimed to address them through targeted actions:
Lack of critical thinking and analytical skills among youth. Young people often lacked the ability to critically evaluate information, which is essential for forming informed opinions about societal and political events. There was a strong need to improve youth’s ability to critically analyze information and strengthen their analytical thinking skills.
Spread of misinformation. Many young people were exposed to and believed in false or biased information, especially from social media, leading to poorly informed opinions.
Aggressive communication and inability to engage in respectful discourse. Youth struggled with expressing their opinions in a respectful and reasoned manner, often leading to conflicts, radicalization, and verbal or emotional attacks.
Youth passivity and conflict avoidance. Many young people were disengaged from societal issues and lacked the skills to confront problems like bullying or exclusion in their families, schools, and communities.
Civic disengagement among young people. Many young people were uninvolved in decision-making processes, whether in politics or local community issues, leading to poor decision-making and social passivity.
activity "I and initiative"
This activity involved open public events for young people, focusing on discussions about democracy, societal participation, and engagement. Topics covered included leadership in society, democracy, civic participation, and the skills needed to take initiative. Participants also engaged in practical exercises to learn how to initiate and implement actions. Professional improvisers facilitated discussions on themes such as initiative, civil engagement, democracy, and politics. A total of 271 unique visitors participated in the events.activity "My skills - my competence"
Educational seminars were organized, where young people, including vulnerable groups (e.g., youth from foster care, low-income families, and schools), were trained in essential skills for active participation in civic activities. The seminars aimed to enhance communication and collaboration skills, helping participants work confidently in diverse cultural, national, and social settings. A total of 190 unique visitors participated in these seminars.activity "An informed young person is a value!"
This activity focused on leadership training for young people, ensuring continuity in leadership roles. The training covered topics such as NGO formation, document preparation, volunteering, and securing funding through project competitions and sponsorships. A total of 8 training sessions were conducted, involving 70 young participants.activity "I know and I give"
This activity provided young people, including vulnerable youth, the opportunity to lead open discussions, reinforcing their skills in presentation and discussion management. Throughout the project, 5 discussions were organized in Latvian schools, where young leaders guided conversations on topics such as civic involvement, initiative-taking, and skills needed to collaborate with local government decision-making processes. The format of the discussions was chosen by the young participants themselves.
The project achieved its main goal of strengthening youth participation and increasing the capabilities of vulnerable youth groups, ensuring continuity in democratic culture. The project contributed to the achievement of the funder''s goals by fostering civic engagement, strengthening democratic values, and enhancing the abilities of vulnerable groups in Latvia. Below are the main impacts and beneficiaries of the project:
Short-term impact. The project strengthened youth participation by providing young people with practical opportunities to lead and organize events, including discussions, thereby enhancing their civic skills. The structured environment offered in locations such as Liepāja, Naujenes Parish, and Ilūkste’s children and youth centers provided immediate experience and support. Additionally, youth developed critical thinking and conflict resolution skills, which are essential for daily life and active participation in societal processes.
For vulnerable youth groups, including those from low-income families and with behavioral issues, the project provided direct education and practical skills. These youth received resources and support that helped improve their ability to integrate into society and defend their rights. The project also played a key role in strengthening democratic values by helping young people understand their significance, which is vital for creating a healthy democratic society. It promoted the ability to engage in respectful and reasoned debates, which is essential for fostering constructive dialogue in society.
Long-term impact. Youth who gained new skills during the project will be able to pass these on to their peers and younger generations, ensuring sustainable knowledge and skill transfer. The organizational platform and digital website created during the project will continue to operate after its completion, ensuring long-term support for youth participation and democratic strengthening. Cooperation with local institutions, such as youth centers, foster families'' centers, schools, and municipalities, will continue, ensuring ongoing support and guidance.With the skills and knowledge they acquired, youth will be able to maintain and promote democratic dialogue in their communities, ensuring a lasting positive impact.
Beneficiaries:
The main beneficiaries were young people, particularly those from vulnerable groups, who gained crucial skills for democratic engagement, critical thinking, and conflict resolution. Specific focus was given to youth from minority backgrounds, those in state care, and those facing socio-economic challenges or behavioral issues, helping them integrate more effectively into society and participate in democratic processes. The wider society benefitted from strengthened civic engagement and the promotion of democratic values, which fostered a more active and informed citizenry, particularly in local communities across Latvia.