Most prijateljstva / Barátság Híd / Bridge of Friendship (KA154 project)

A) Project overview
“Most prijateljstva / Barátság Híd” is a two-year KA154 cross-border project that seeks to transform the relationship between young people living along the Croatian-Hungarian border. Despite sharing 355 kilometres of border and a deep historical connection, young people in this region often remain disconnected, living parallel lives separated by language, cultural differences, and mental barriers. This project aims to bridge that gap, fostering meaningful connections through a series of youth-led activities.

The project was conceived in response to the challenges of integrating communities following Croatia's entry into the Schengen Area in 2023. While physical borders have been removed, mental barriers remain, perpetuating a sense of distance and isolation.

With over 800 years of shared history and countless common challenges and opportunities, young people from Croatia and Hungary are perfectly positioned to work together towards building a shared future. Through twelve day-long encounters, two summer camps, and two community festivals, the project will enable young participants to turn cultural differences into sources of inspiration and linguistic challenges into opportunities for learning.

B) Project objectives
The project seeks to transform the Croatian-Hungarian border into a space of connection and collaboration, starting with its young residents. It aims to break down mental barriers by fostering meaningful interpersonal relationships. By creating opportunities for young people to interact, play, learn, and create together, the project lays the foundation for mutual understanding and lasting friendships.

Through a wide variety of activities, the project also seeks to encourage cross-cultural exchange, promote environmental sustainability, and provide young people with the tools and confidence to take an active role in their communities. By the end of the project, participants will have formed new friendships and developed the skills and experience needed to be active contributors to a more cohesive Europe.

C) Project activities
The project will include a range of joint activities to ensure a deep and meaningful engagement of all participants.

a) Twelve day-long encounters
These will alternate between Croatia and Hungary and will bring together groups of 16 young people (eight from each country). Activities will focus on team building, cultural exchange, and environmental action. From language games and traditional cooking sessions to sports and digital storytelling, each encounter will deepen the participants' connection.

b) Two summer camps
One camp will be hosted in Croatia and the other in Hungary. Each camp will gather 24 young people (twelve from each country) for 5 days of shared experiences, learning, and collaboration. Camps will focus on themes like environmental sustainability, intercultural dialogue, and youth empowerment.

c) Two community festivals
These festivals will serve as the culmination of each project year, celebrating the participants' achievements and engaging the broader community. The festivals will include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, all organised by the young participants.

d) Regular online follow-up sessions
Between in-person events, participants will stay connected through virtual meetings to plan upcoming activities and share updates.

D) Role of the Hungarian partner organisation
The Hungarian partner organisation will play an important role in the successful implementation of this project. Firstly, the Hungarian partner will be a formal applicant of this project proposal to their NA. Responsibilities will include recruiting and supporting Hungarian participants, coordinating local events, and collaborating closely with SUMA to ensure a seamless and impactful experience for all involved.

The partner organisation will co-host the twelve day-long encounters, one of the summer camps, and one of the festivals. It will also assist in communication and dissemination efforts, ensuring that the project reaches and engages the wider community.

E) Eligibility and requirements
The ideal partner organisation will be based in Hungary in the proximity of the CRO-HU border, and have experience in youth work, cross-border collaboration, or community projects. They should have the capacity to recruit participants aged 13–29, particularly those from rural or underrepresented backgrounds. Experience with Erasmus+ or other EU-funded programmes is an advantage but not a strict requirement.

F) How to apply
Organisations interested in joining the “Most prijateljstva / Barátság Híd” project are invited to submit an application via email. Please include the subject line: “Barátság Híd Partner Application” and provide the following details:

a) Name and contact details of your organisation.
b) Overview of your organisation’s experience and activities related to youth work or cross-border collaboration - it can be a PIF document
c) A brief explanation of your motivation for joining this project.
d) Contact details of the person responsible for project coordination.

Applications should be sent to udrugasuma@gmail.com by January 15th, 2025.