UNIT.1. Diverse Youth for a rich Europe
Europe has gradually developed the values underlying humanism and democracy: equality of individuals, freedom, respect for reason, drawing inspiration from the cultural, religious, and humanist inheritance. Believing that reunited Europe intends to continue along the path of civilization, progress, and prosperity, for the good of all its inhabitants especially for young people (youth). Europe permanently proves that is making efforts to remain a continent open to culture, learning and social progress.
1.1. The future of diversity
First approach to the future of diversity: Convinced that, while remaining proud of their own national identities and history, the young people of Europe are determined to transcend their current divisions and, united ever more closely, to forge a common destiny.
Second approach to the future of diversity: Convinced that, thus “united in its diversity,” Europe offers them the best chance of pursuing, with due regard for the rights of each individual and in awareness of their responsibilities towards future generations.
1.2. Youth participation for strengthening democratic life
A normative conception of youth participation is about engaging in forming opinions and taking actions to bring about positive change in society. It can take different forms:
- Participation of young people in representative democracy: standing for or voting in elections
- Participation of young people in participatory structures: promoting the involvement of more young people in structures, such as youth NGOs or volunteering
- Participation in debate: on youth or community issues; opinion-shaping through written press or youth radio, participating in online discussion
- Seeking information and learning about democracy: participating in simulations of learning processes, attending training or learning at school, engaging in youth organizations
Inspiring/thought provoking questions
The online Oxford Dictionary defines culture shock as disorientation experienced when suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture or way of life. When you move to a new country, everything is unfamiliar: weather, landscape, language, food, values, and communication.
- How far do you agree or disagree with the definition? Why?
- What forms of culture shock have you experienced?