This July I took part in the third part of a study-visit to the Caucasus, specifically, to Azerbaijan.
There, together with young people of 15 different European nationalities, we explored a wide range of youth organisations to deepen our understanding of the state of volunteering in the country both locally and internationally, discussing human rights, community development and youth participation and empowerment.
Visiting the two largest cities, Baku and Ganja, I observed a vibrant youth culture and a growing civil society that is challenged by significant economic challenges, specific political situations and the geopolitical context characteristic for the region.
Therefore, one of the main objectives of the project has been to improve the competencies of youth workers and leaders in order to empower them to actively participate in community development processes in their country. At the same time, it has fostered a trans-European dialogue on approaches, means and practices used to address these issues from different perspectives.
It has been an incredible and very enriching experience to see first-hand the local youth realities, to meet the workers involved in the organisations and public bodies, and to be able to contribute my grain of sand with different ideas on youth participation and community development.
Anna Xumetra Ginesta
26/07/2023
