After two successful editions in Romania, the European Rural Youth Summit (ERYS) is set to return for its third edition, this time in Valča, Slovakia, from August 26–30, 2025. Organized under the umbrella of the European Youth Village program, ERYS 2025 will bring together rural youth, youth workers, and European decision-makers to strengthen dialogue, share experiences, and shape youth-focused policies for rural areas across Europe.
ERYS is an international event that empowers young people from rural communities to raise their voices, connect with one another, and influence youth policy. This year’s summit is organized by the Slovak National Agency (NIVAM) for Erasmus+ Youth and Sports, the Romanian National Agency (ANPCDEFP), and the Governance of the European Youth Village program (Active Development Association and Go Free – Association for the Support of Civil Society), in collaboration with OZ Vidiecky parlament mladých na Slovensku.
With the theme „TOGETHER FOR TODAY”, the 2025 edition will focus on the wellbeing of rural youth and the importance of intercultural dialogue in building resilient and inclusive rural communities. Participants will engage in workshops, discussions, and co-creation sessions to explore challenges and solutions relevant to youth living in rural areas. “ERYS is more than an event, it’s a growing movement for rural youth empowerment. We are building a cross-European network of young leaders who are not only shaping the future but acting in the present.” (Andra Camelia Cordoș, European Youth Village program)
The summit will also result in a policy recommendation based on the voices and lived experiences of rural youth. It will address two strategic priorities:
- A holistic approach to mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing, tailored to the realities of rural youth.
- Meaningful intercultural dialogue that reduces isolation and fosters inclusivity and mutual understanding.
Youth (aged 16–30), youth workers, and policymakers from across Europe are invited to apply through the SALTO-YOUTH platform by June 30, 2025.
Find the registration form and more logistical information here.
Last year at ERYS 2024: 130 young people and youth workers from 21 European countries.
Last 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 their own experiences and knowledge, turning ERYS 2024 into a space of continuous exchange and inspiration. See below what participants had to say about their experience.
„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)
„My experience at the European Rural Youth Summit was truly unique and enriching. Although I was already familiar with the idea of a ‘European’ village, I discovered a whole new perspective and potential in an ordinary village from a disadvantaged area. Alongside more than 100 motivated people, I was reminded that you should never tell a young person that something is impossible. I gained valuable experience, built a wide network, and developed new ideas and visions on various topics – from potential projects that could transform community life to reflections on everyday challenges.” (Carolina Dontu, Moldova)
More information, photos, and videos from the first two editions of ERYS can be found on the event’s Instagram account here. Read the two retrospective articles about ERYS 2023 and ERYS 2024 as well.
About the European Youth Village Program – a successful story born in Romania, now expanding across Europe.
The European Youth Village program has been instrumental in empowering rural youth across Europe by providing them with tools, visibility, and a structured framework for local, national, and European engagement. Since its launch almost 8 years ago, the program has supported dozens of rural communities in Romania in creating youth-led initiatives, strengthening civic participation, and building sustainable partnerships between young people and decision-makers. By promoting a bottom-up approach, the initiative helps ensure that the voices of rural youth are not only heard but also shape policies that affect their lives. The program was co-created in Romania by two nonprofit organizations, the Active Development Association (ADA) and Go Free – Association for Supporting Civil Society (GO FREE). The two organizations, supported by strategic partners, aim to expand this successful model from Romania to a European level. ERYS has become a key tool in achieving this goal. Find more on https://europeanyouthvillage.eu/.
