YE Youthcracy
YE Youthcracy
Between July 17 and 26, 2026, we participated in the Erasmus+ Youthcracy project in Belgium. Six young people from Slovakia represented our country during this unforgettable international experience. The project took place in the small village of Botassart, surrounded by beautiful nature, which created an ideal environment for learning, collaboration, and forging new friendships.
The main theme of the project was democracy, electoral systems, and the functioning of parliaments. During the project, we learned how democratic societies work, discussed important political topics, and experienced various decision-making processes through interactive activities.
Each morning began with delicious breakfast, followed by energizers that helped us wake up and prepare for the new day. Subsequently, we engaged in the main program, where we learned about democracy, elections, and the functioning of parliamentary systems through workshops, simulations, and discussions.
One of the most interesting parts of the project was that we held three different elections, with the government changing after each one. This allowed us to experience firsthand how elections influence the leadership and decision-making of a country. We also had several court sessions, which were held in cases where participants did not adhere to the rules or respect the agreed-upon principles. Thanks to these activities, the project was not only educational but also fun and engaging.
In addition to the official program, we also had plenty of free time. We spent it walking in the beautiful nature, playing sports, listening to music, or chatting with participants from various countries. These moments helped us form strong friendships and better understand the culture and life in other countries.
The second evening was one of the most memorable, as it was the Intercultural Night. Each country presented its traditional dishes, sweets, and customs, and also prepared a short program, such as a dance or a quiz. The Slovak team presented a piece of our folklore, and soon other participants joined us in dancing. This evening brought us even closer, and for a while, we all felt like one big international family.
During the project, we also had the opportunity to travel. We visited the European Parliament and explored the beauties of Brussels. Another unforgettable trip took us on a hike to the picturesque town of Bouillon, and we also spent a day discovering the capital of Luxembourg.
The penultimate day was also the most emotional. Together, we evaluated the entire project, shared our impressions, and reflected on everything we had learned during these days. Saying goodbye to the people with whom we spent ten unforgettable days was not easy at all. Then, all that remained was the journey home, during which we carried countless memories, new friendships, and valuable experiences with us.
The Youthcracy project brought us a deeper understanding of democracy and active citizenship, while also helping us improve communication skills, broaden our horizons, and meet young people from different parts of Europe. It was an experience that will stay with us for a lifetime, and we would certainly participate again without hesitation.
