We’ve officially kicked off DemoGreenYE, our Youth Exchange in the beautiful Canary Islands! This week, 42 motivated young people from Romania, Luxembourg, Spain, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Sweden, and Poland have come together to explore the powerful connection between democracy and sustainability.
At its core, democracy ensures every voice counts in shaping our shared future. In an era marked by pressing environmental challenges, integrating ecological thinking into democratic practices isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential! Who better to drive this crucial integration forward than young people, whose futures depend directly on the decisions made today?
The first days of our exchange have been dedicated to team building, defining key concepts, and sparking enthusiasm for the days ahead. Participants started by presenting “National Realities,” that highlight sustainability issues unique to their home countries, and discussing solutions, influential figures, and local contexts.
We’ve also mapped out inspiring green activism initiatives across the represented countries. A special visit from Avanfuer, a local organization, gave participants practical insights into sustainability challenges and solutions right here in Fuerteventura to illustrate the tangible impact of activism.
Of course, amidst the intense discussions, we’ve found moments to appreciate the stunning nature surrounding us, and we’ve enjoyed two vibrant intercultural evenings filled with energy and cultural exchange.
As we continue, our participants are preparing digital campaigns aimed at fostering sustainability and democratic participation. Throughout the week, they’ll enhance their understanding of global environmental challenges, sharpen their advocacy skills, and experiment with democratic tools to make real, lasting change.
