Empowered citizenship
Empowered Citizenship
A few days ago, I participated in a youth exchange in an exotic destination, the theme of which was conscious citizenship and the European Union. I participated in the exchange with the Slovak team, whose members were amazing people from various parts of Slovakia. Together we represented our country, enriched our knowledge, and explored beautiful Cyprus. A total of 6 countries participated in the exchange: Slovakia, Bulgaria, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, and Greece. It was thus a mix of cultures, languages, and also different customs. Each of us came from a different background, from a different corner of the world, yet despite that, we were so similar in many ways. We found common ground, got to know each other's countries, and at the same time improved our language skills, both in English and in other languages we are studying.
The theme of the project was active citizenship. Every day we had several workshops that focused on how we, as young people, can become active citizens. Together with participants from other countries, we explored the true meaning of active citizenship, looked at the histories of our countries, the mistakes that occurred, and tried to learn from them. Thanks to past mistakes, we can shape a better present and a better tomorrow. After all, each of us in Slovakia is free today. Everyone can study and do what they want, they can decide what to buy, where to live, what to cook, and with whom to share it. Just as we make decisions about all these everyday things in our lives, it is our responsibility to also decide about what is happening in our country. No citizen should be indifferent to what is happening in their country. Every single one of us has a voice. So why be silent and not use it? This privilege of being able to express one's opinion is not a given, even though for many people it seems that way. Many people from various parts of the world are constantly fighting for this right, and unfortunately, unsuccessfully. We Slovaks have also gone through very difficult periods in history when we voted, but only outwardly, because there was only one side to choose from. Let's not give up this privilege and let's not close our eyes to reality. Change starts with us. Only then can we all collectively contribute to a better future. Whether it's the future of our country or the entire European Union.
Every day we had many activities planned, where we were assigned to international groups and had to work on a common project. One of them was to create a video on the topic: How do you imagine Europe without the European Union? During this activity, my group and I realized how many benefits we would actually lose. Traveling only with a passport, customs checks, visas, no Eurozone, inability to move to a member country "just like that." It was here that we realized how lucky we actually are that despite all the differences between member countries, we are actually one big family.
This youth exchange opened my eyes in many areas. It taught me to be more perceptive to what is happening around me. It taught me to be engaged and aware in the areas of elections, the European Union, foreign policy, and my own country. I had the opportunity to meet incredible people from various parts of the world, with whom we formed friendships and together broke down all stereotypes. I had the opportunity to travel, discover a new country, taste local cuisine, see incredible places, participate in very beneficial workshops, learn a lot of new information, and represent my country. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity; after this project, I will never forget to value my right to express my opinion and I will never remain silent.