In an ever-changing Europe, where the challenges of young people from rural areas are often overlooked, young people need more than ever a strong voice and a platform to support their aspirations and actions and create contexts for dialogue and connection. This is what the European Rural Youth Summit (ERYS), which reached its second edition in 2024, also set out to do. The event, held between July 23-27, in the village of Hălăucești, Iași, brought together 130 young people and youth workers from all over Europe to debate, learn and shape the present and future of rural communities in Europe.
The event was organized under the umbrella of the European Youth Village program, by the Association for Active Development and Go Free – Association for the Support of Civil Society, together with the National Agency that coordinates in Romania the Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps programs. The host of the event was the Youth Group of Hălăucești – European Youth Village 2022-2023.
Here’s a revised and adapted version of the testimonial in English:
„The summit has always been an important event for every young person, but this year felt especially significant as it was held in Hălăucești, our village. Being able to participate in organizing and running this event was a dream come true for us. We were eager to host the European Rural Youth Summit for a long time, and even though the event flew by in what felt like moments, the experience was incredibly fulfilling. Organizing the summit was a huge responsibility and involved a lot of mobilization, teamwork, and dedication. We worked hand-in-hand to set up the learning spaces, iron out the details, and ensure everything ran smoothly. It’s no easy feat to organize such an event in a village, but with the support of the Hălăucești team and the program coordinators, we managed to harmonize our efforts and achieve everything we aimed for. I am glad that I could both host and participate in this summit. It was a great learning experience, and I had the chance to meet many incredible people who shared their experiences and challenges as young individuals from rural areas. Together, we offered advice, solutions, and new ideas to shape the present and the future of our villages. This event was truly special, and we’re already looking forward to the next edition!” (Delia from Hălăucești, Romania)
From rural to plural and beyond
Held under the slogan FROM RURAL TO PLURAL AND BEYOND, the European event dedicated to young people from rural areas aimed to build on the results of the first edition of the summit, while focusing on the participants’ vision on the expansion of the European Youth Village program in their countries, and on the development of an action plan in this regard, together with other partners from Europe interested in getting involved in the piloting process.
ERYS 2024 focused on the diversity of experiences and needs of rural youth, being a unique opportunity to bring together rural leaders from different countries, cultures and socio-economic backgrounds, highlighting the importance of inclusion and diversity in the development of Europe’s rural youth ecosystem.
The improvement of youth policies (at national and European level) that directly target young people from rural areas must take into account the specificities of rural communities. There is a need for national and European authorities to enter into more frequent dialogue with those who ultimately represent the target group of European policies and measures that (also) affect the European young people from rural areas.
130 young people from 21 countries: building a European Youth Community
This year’s edition of the European Rural Youth Summit was attended by 130 young people and youth workers from 21 European countries. The diversity of participants brought new perspectives and ideas, creating a safe environment for learning and collaboration. Each participant contributed with their experiences and knowledge, transforming ERYS 2024 into a place of continuous exchange and inspiration.
Rural Youth Talks: The voice of Europe’s rural youth
One of the most anticipated moments of the summit was the Rural Youth Talks session, where young people from various rural communities shared their stories. This session highlighted both the challenges and successes of young people striving to make a difference in their rural communities. The speeches were powerful, reflecting both the difficulties they face and the innovative solutions they have implemented to overcome these obstacles.
„I faced different challenges as a rural young person, starting from the lack of infrastructure and paved roads to the prejudices from certain people that question a student’s ability and intelligence just because he/she comes from a rural area. Young people are seekers. Seekers of opportunities for them, seekers of improvement, seekers of adventures and seekers of fun. And this seeking is sometimes interrupted by the lack of infrastructure and transport. I was also affected by this. As a person who has been through most of these challenges, I believe I am a good example that you can achieve great things and have access to opportunities, even if you live in a rural area. I for one, managed to get accepted as a student in the best University of Kosovo, where I have finished 6 years of studies, and I am currently graduating in the Dentistry branch.” (Vesa Berbatovci, Kosovo)
„When I first joined the European Youth Village a couple of years ago, I was struggling with my mental health. Feelings of isolation and being overlooked had taken a toll on me. I was hesitant to seek help and unsure about what I should do. But when I entered the community, my perspective changed. The European Youth Village provided an incredible support system that helped me understand where I was and what I was getting myself into. With time, I realized that it wasn’t just about attending events: it was about building real, meaningful connections. The people I met here were genuinely invested in each other’s well-being. They created an environment of trust and understanding, where it was okay to be vulnerable and to ask for help. This environment of mutual support taught me that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. I learned to trust others and to lean on them when I needed it most. Also, being part of this community improved my mental health and well-being by providing a safe space where I could express myself and grow.” (Cătălina, România)
“[…]The main reason why I got involved in so many youth associations and organizations at the same time was my rural background, because as you know, most people tend to think that people living in the countryside are always simple and a little frivolous people who do not take initiative. At least that’s how it had always seemed to be to young Elis, and to avoid such a fate, I always started working against everything that limited me and I became one of the most socially active young people in my home area. This approach to life, however, has not always brought me much approval from the family and community. For example, there were people who thought that I was just looking for attention. For example, when creating the youth council, some people thought that I just wanted to gain visibility for a future in local politics, but there were a few people who really saw that such an initiative could really improve the lives of local young people. But things really changed when I actually made the youth council a real thing.” (Elis, Estonia)
“[…] Before I conclude this speech, I would like my message to be heard by the authorities as well. While we discuss bridging the urban-rural divide in Europe, words must be matched with tangible actions. Current public policies often neglect the development of rural youth, and their needs remain invisible. It’s imperative to prioritize and respond promptly to these issues, ensuring that rural youth are not left behind in the path towards progress. To all of you listening, I encourage you to consider fostering similar movements in your own countries. I believe that empowering rural youth globally starts with grassroots initiatives that amplify their voices and address their unique challenges. By building networks and advocating for inclusive youth policies, we can create a more equitable future for all. Regardless of what decision-makers or adults may say, remember that your engagement in the community can make a difference. (Ioana, România)
“[…] So yes, we do have a choice. We can choose to transform the challenges we face into unique opportunities and achievements. We can choose to take action and make a difference, be it big or small. And then feel the reward of walking through your community and saying: I did that. Not to mention that all the effort is becoming more and more recognized. Doing work like this will help you learn new things, meet amazing people and get opportunities like th one we are at right now. So, take pride in your work, in who you are. Be the hero of your community. Spread the motivation and let’s share the spirit of the European Rural Youth Summit across the countries we come from!” (Fiodor, Moldova)
Involved facilitators and partners
As for the learning component, the summit hosted a series of workshops and interactive sessions on key topics to prepare participants to take action in their communities. These included: Rural Youth Power, Rural Development, Inclusion & Diversity, and Rural Youth Wellbeing. Participants had the opportunity to develop their skills, learn about civic mobilization and explore new ways of thinking to face the challenges they encounter.
Each year, ERYS counts on the contribution of dedicated facilitators and of the involved civil society partners, who voluntarily hold workshops, providing participants with the necessary tools to become agents of change in their communities.
In 2024, the 23 workshops were supported by: Ana Mocanu from Funky Citizens, Andreea Petruţ from Act for Tomorrow, Andrei Dobre and Oana Pășălan from Romanian Angel Appeal, Lukáš Rychetský from Projekt Lajfr, Silvja Hodo from JICA, Mihaela Vechiu, Andrei Popescu, Vlad Dumitrescu and Bianca Oprea from the Foundation for the Development of Civil Society, Nicuşor Ciobanu from ANPCDEFP, George Ficuță from the Association for Active Development, Ionuț Șerban and Andra Camelia Cordoș from Go Free, Alex Mazăre from SOS Children’s Villages, Corina Pintea from the Cluj-Napoca Volunteer Center.
Youth-friendly European villages
ERYS 2024 was more than just an event – it was a movement aimed at strengthening rural youth networks, amplifying young people’s voices and driving real change in rural communities across Europe. Participants returned home with a clearer vision of what a youth-friendly European village means and the tools needed to continue making a change in their communities.
Young people across Europe want villages that are vibrant, inclusive, and driven by shared values where they can lead, innovate, and thrive. They envision communities where equality, respect, and openness are fundamental principles, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed and make a meaningful impact.
These villages should embrace diversity, offering safe and welcoming spaces where young people can express themselves freely, engage in lifelong learning, and actively participate in shaping their communities’ futures. They want villages that prioritize sustainability, with green practices and environmental stewardship at the core of daily life.
Young people wish for villages that provide the infrastructure and services they need to grow – accessible education, healthcare, public transportation, and digital connectivity. They want to see strong partnerships between youth and local authorities, with young voices actively involved in decision-making processes and community initiatives.
In these villages, celebration of diversity is key, with intercultural events and inclusive initiatives fostering understanding and unity. Ultimately, young people across Europe want villages where they are not just residents but the driving force behind a thriving, resilient, and youth-friendly community. (European Rural Youth Summit, 2024)
Message from the European Parliament for ERYS participants
In his video message to ERYA participants, the Vice President of the European Parliament, Victor Negrescu, emphasized the importance of supporting rural communities and youth within the European Union. He highlighted the need for the EU to invest more in rural areas, ensuring that young people have the opportunity to live and thrive in smaller communities. Negrescu shared his ongoing efforts initiated at the European Parliament level to secure increased funding for rural development, including initiatives like the Young Farmers Program and the Erasmus Program. He also mentioned his role in initiating pilot projects aimed at the digital transformation of rural schools. Negrescu encouraged participants to remain active in debates on rural development and assured them that he would continue advocating for their needs at the EU level. He expressed a strong commitment to opening the European Parliament to citizens, especially those from smaller communities, and invited participants to collaborate with him on initiatives to support rural youth.
Testimonials from ERYS participants:
„The European Rural Youth Summit was a truly enriching experience for me. The workshops were not only insightful but also made me reflect on aspects of daily life that we often overlook. It was a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, and I left with a deeper understanding of rural development and the potential we have to make a difference in our communities.” (Temur Jvarsheishvili, Georgia)
„This was my first international project experience and I can say that it totally worthed it! The people I met, the energy of organizers and facilitators, all workshops – their combination made that event unforgettable. The discussions that we had with other participants helped me to find new ideas and apply it after I come back to my country. I would definitely participate again there.” (Shabnam Mirzazada, Azerbaidjan)
„My experience at the European Rural Youth Summit was an unusual one, from which I gained a rich experience. Being familiar with the concept of a „European” village, I discovered a new perspective and potential of an ordinary village from a disadvantaged environment. Together with over 100 motivated people, I realized once again that you should never tell a young person that nothing is possible. I gained valuable experience, an extensive network and new visions and ideas on various topics, from potential projects that could change the life of the community to opinions about everyday life.” (Carolina Dontu, Moldova)
„Attending the European Rural Youth Summit was a transformative experience that highlighted the power of collective action and the importance of rural youth in shaping Europe’s future. The summit brought together young leaders from across the continent to engage in meaningful dialogue, share innovative ideas, and collaborate on strategies for rural development.
The diverse range of sessions and workshops provided a platform for participants to explore key issues facing rural communities, from environmental sustainability to economic resilience. I was particularly struck by the discussions around the „(Rural) Youth Ecosystem,” which underscored the need for more inclusive and supportive structures that empower young people in rural areas.
One of the most memorable aspects of the summit was the sense of community and shared purpose among participants. Whether during the plenary sessions, thematic workshops, or informal talks, there was a palpable energy and commitment to making a positive impact. The intercultural evening in Hălăucești was a celebration of this unity, where we not only shared our cultures but also our visions for a more inclusive and sustainable Europe.
The summit also provided invaluable opportunities to network with like-minded individuals and learn from the experiences of others. The insights gained from these interactions have inspired me to think more critically about the challenges and opportunities in my own community and how I can contribute to positive change.
In conclusion, the European Rural Youth Summit was not just an event but a catalyst for action. It reinforced the importance of youth voices in rural development and the potential we have to drive meaningful change. I leave the summit with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to applying what I’ve learned to my work in Armenia.” (Martirosyan Tatevik, Armenia)
More information and photos from the event are available on @ERYSummit‘s Instagram page.
The event is funded with the support of the European Commission through the Erasmus+ and Corpul European de Solidaritate (ESC).
Material developed by Andra Camelia Cordoș for Mica Redacție Rurală. Translation by Ana Simerea.
Photo source: Archive of the European Rural Youth Summit event
