Exploring EU Integration from a Gen Z Perspective

Our project centers on two pivotal moments in Europe’s history: the shift from authoritarian regimes to democratic governance and the journey towards European integration. These developments symbolize a significant break from past autocracies, paving the way for societies grounded in democratic principles and the unification of diverse European nations under a common ethos.

Our project aims to enrich the knowledge and understanding of younger generations regarding the European Union’s rich history, diverse cultures, shared values, and notable achievements. We intend to implement a series of specialized activities and collaborative initiatives that emphasize the importance of mutual understanding, tolerance, and respect for diversity—key foundations for sustaining the EU’s integration process. Our goal is to instill these values in the younger generation, thereby contributing to a future of stability and continued progress within the European Union.

Moreover, our project actively supports exploring and promoting the defining achievements of European integration. By examining key milestones and reference points in this journey, we will highlight the transformative effects these changes have had on the daily lives of European citizens. This includes specific rights, such as freedom of movement, and widely accepted accomplishments like a unified currency. To make this exploration more relatable and impactful, we will incorporate personal stories and testimonies from individuals who have witnessed these changes firsthand, offering a rich intergenerational perspective.

The beneficiaries of our project are members of Generation Z, particularly those from countries that have transitioned from communism. However, our direct focus is on professionals who engage with and influence this demographic: youth workers and other education sector professionals. By equipping these professionals with the necessary resources, knowledge, and skills, we aim to indirectly enhance and inform the younger generation, ensuring they receive accurate and effective guidance about the history and values of the European Union.

We have selected these target groups due to their capacity to shape the future trajectory of society. As future leaders, today’s youth bear the responsibility of preserving the EU’s values and guiding its integration process. However, their understanding and appreciation of the EU’s historical journey and achievements depend heavily on the educators and professionals who mentor them. Empowering these professionals is thus essential for effectively influencing younger generations. By focusing on these key groups, our project is designed to foster a culture of awareness and understanding that will sustain and advance the EU’s values and accomplishments into the future.

It is vital to equip youth workers to educate young people about European integration and the legacy of totalitarianism for several reasons. Many young people may lack a comprehensive understanding of Europe’s totalitarian past and the subsequent path to integration. Well-informed teachers and youth workers can provide fact-based education on these topics, helping young people grasp the struggles, achievements, and lessons from this critical period in history. European integration is built on core values like democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and respect for diversity. Educating young people about the integration process and the totalitarian past helps embed these values, fostering a shared sense of belonging and commitment to the EU’s ideals. Understanding the past and the evolution of European integration encourages young people to engage more actively in democratic processes, participate in voting, policy discussions, and advocate for the values they hold dear. Awareness of the totalitarian past also helps young people recognize the importance of preserving and strengthening the democratic, integrated Europe we have today, making them more resilient to populist narratives that often oversimplify complex issues.