The 2025 World Youth Development Forum (WYDF), held from July 15 to July 20 in Suzhou and in Shanghai, successfully concluded with a powerful focus on harnessing the potential of youth to drive global development. With more than 500 participants from over 100 countries, this global gathering marked a pivotal moment in mobilizing youth-led solutions for today’s most urgent global challenges.

The event’s theme, “Unleash Youth Potential for Global Development,” provided a platform for youth leaders, government representatives, international organizations, and youth organizations to come together and explore innovative solutions to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The forum’s discussions reflected a shared commitment to fostering youth-led actions for sustainable development and global progress.

The forum was marked by the launch of three major initiatives aimed at accelerating youth-driven solutions: International Youth Advocacy for Unleashing Youth Potential, 100 Excellence Actions of the Global Youth Development Action Plan 2025 and Acceleration Week for Global Youth Development. These initiatives aim to empower youth across the globe and accelerate global efforts to achieve a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future.

At the opening ceremony, Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), delivered an address in which he highlighted the urgent need for decent jobs and economic opportunities for the world’s 1.2 billion young people. Mr. Houngbo reaffirmed the ILO’s commitment to supporting youth empowerment through initiatives focused on digital literacy, green transition skills, and enhancing youth participation in decision-making processes.

Thematic Forum on Artificial Intelligence & Technology Innovation

A major thematic session on Artificial Intelligence and Science & Technology Innovation brought together 150 youth leaders from 64 countries. The session focused on how technological advancements are reshaping the future of work and creating new opportunities for youth worldwide. Discussions centered on the importance of equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in the digital and green economies, which are increasingly becoming integral to future job markets.

Youth-Led Green Consumption and Sustainability Innovations

The forum also highlighted youth-led initiatives in green consumption and sustainable development. Innovators from around the world shared their solutions to combat climate change, promote renewable energy, and foster sustainable lifestyles. These young leaders demonstrated how innovation and new technologies, alongside grassroots advocacy, can drive environmental change.

The European Youth Association played a central role in this year’s WYDF, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of China-Europe relations. The China-Europe Youth Leader Development Forum underscored the growing impact of international collaboration in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with youth at the center of these efforts.

With the successful outcomes of the 2025 WYDF, the European Youth Association is committed to continuing its work in empowering young people worldwide. The association looks forward to fostering cross-regional collaboration and advocating for sustainable solutions to the most pressing global challenges, all while ensuring that youth are at the forefront of these efforts.

As the forum concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, driven by the knowledge that youth have the power to shape the future and contribute to a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable world.

Првиот ден започна со презентација на нацрт транснационалната стратегија за промоција на циркуларната економија за електронски отпад (е-отпад), по што следуваа осум регионални бизнис маркет анализи за е-отпад од земјите учеснички. Овие сесии поттикнаа вредна дискусија за тековната состојба на системите за е-отпад низ регионот, при што беа истакнати и заеднички предизвици и примери на напредок.

Еден од највпечатливите моменти на работилницата беше посетата на јавното претпријатие Комуналец во Кичево, каде што партнерите се запознаа со локалниот систем за управување со отпад и водеа отворена дискусија со локалните лидери. Посетата обезбеди важен контекст за реалните услови во регионот и ја нагласи важноста од подигање на јавната свест за правилно ракување со е-отпадот.

Подоцна истиот ден, групата ја посети Општина Кичево, каде што беше претставен локалниот акциски план за управување со отпад. Планот опфаќа локални иницијативи за зајакнување на циркуларната економија и поддршка на долгорочна одржливост.

Идни насоки на проектот

Вториот ден, партнерите беа запознаени со онлајн алатките на транснационалната канцеларија ADREEE – дигитална платформа дизајнирана да ја поддржи соработката и тестирањето на решенија за време на пилот фазата.

Последната сесија од работилницата беше третиот состанок на Управниот Одбор, каде што водечкиот партнер ги сподели постигнувањата од вториот период и ги претстави приоритетите за следната фаза од имплементацијата. Посебен акцент беше ставен на прецизното известување и координација, со што беа воведени и месечни состаноци за поддршка на натамошниот напредок.

Зајакнување на соработката

Работилници како оваа не се клучни само за следење на напредокот и усогласување на плановите, туку и за градење доверба и подлабока соработка меѓу партнерите. Во Кичево, тој дух на тимска работа беше јасно присутен, и во формалните сесии и во неформалните разговори.

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Earlier this month, partners of the Interreg IPA Adrion CircleWaste project gathered in Kicevo, North Macedonia, for the third Validation Workshop. Over two days, the group focused on reviewing progress, exchanging ideas, and planning the next steps – all in a collaborative and constructive environment.

The first day began with a presentation of the draft Transnational Strategy for the Promotion of the eWaste Circular Economy, followed by eight regional eWaste Business Market Assessments from participating countries. These sessions sparked valuable dialogue on the current state of e-waste systems across the region, highlighting both shared challenges and examples of progress.

One of the workshop highlights was a visit to the local Public Enterprise Komunalec, where partners learned more about Kicevo’s waste management system and engaged in open discussions with local leaders. The visit provided important context on the real-world conditions in the region and emphasized the importance of raising public awareness around proper e-waste handling.

Later that day, the group visited Kicevo’s Town Hall, where the municipality’s Local Waste Management Action Plan was presented. The plan outlines local initiatives to strengthen the circular economy and foster long-term sustainability.

Steering the Project Forward

The second day, partners were introduced to the ADREEE Transnational Office Online Tools, a digital platform designed to support collaboration and solution testing during the piloting phase.

The final session of the workshop was the third Steering Committee Meeting, where the Lead Partner shared achievements from Period 2 and outlined priorities for the next phase of implementation. Emphasis was placed on accurate reporting and coordination, with monthly meetings introduced to support progress moving forward.

Strengthening Collaboration Across Borders

Workshops like this are key not only for tracking progress and aligning plans, but for building trust and deeper cooperation between partners. In Kicevo, that spirit of teamwork was clear, through formal sessions and informal conversations alike.

We’re honored to have hosted as PP10 and thank PP9 Kicevo and all our partners for their outstanding cooperation, input, and dedication during the event..

CircleWaste има за цел да промовира долгорочна одржливост на бизнисите кои додаваат економска, еколошка и социјална вредност на отпадот од електронската и електричната опрема (eWASTE), преку обезбедување на бизнисите со постојан извор на е-отпад да бидат внесени во нивниот кружен модел.

Проектот CircleWaste се занимава со критичното прашање на електронскиот отпад во јадранско-јонскиот регион преку поттикнување на одржлив, кружен пристап кон управувањето со отпадот. Оваа иницијатива обединува 12 партнери од осум земји за да создаде иновативни, еколошки свесни решенија кои ги ублажуваат и еколошките и економските предизвици поврзани со е-отпадот.

CircleWaste проектот има за цел да воспостави кружна економија за е-отпад преку создавање на бизнис модел кој обезбедува континуирано снабдување со е-отпад за повторна употреба, обнова и рециклирање, ефикасно намалувајќи ја линеарноста на отпадот во областа на јадранско-јонскиот регион. За да се постигне ова, проектот ќе развие Транснационална стратегија за управување со е-отпад заедно со регионалните територијални акциони планови, кои ќе бидат дизајнирани да одговорат на уникатните потреби на локалните заедници.

Преку пилот-иницијативи како што се паметни кутии за испорака и предплатени повратни налепници, CircleWaste ќе промовира одговорни практики за собирање и рециклирање на е-отпад. Со зголемување на стапките на собирање е-отпад и поттикнување на регионалната соработка, CircleWaste ќе ја вклучува јавноста во практики за одржлива потрошувачка, искористувајќи ги дигиталните иновации и партнерствата во заедницата. Овие напори придонесуваат за целите на ЕУ за одржливост и поддржуваат еластична циркуларна економија, поставувајќи пример за одржливо управување со е-отпад низ Европа.

Овој проект е поддржан од програмата Interreg IPA ADRION во рамките на Интеррег фондовите (Европски фонд за регионален развој и ИПА III), ко-финансиран од Европската Унија.

Клучни цели

• Развивање на иновативни решенија за зголемување на ефикасноста на ресурсите при рециклирање на е-отпад.
• Промовирање на модели на циркуларна економија во секторот за е-отпад низ регионот АДРИОН.
• Поддршка на развојот и спроведувањето на територијалните акциони планови за регионална примена на принципите на циркуларната економија.
• Да се ​​обезбеди долгорочна одржливост и прекугранична соработка во управувањето со е-отпад.

Буџет на проектот

Вкупниот буџет на проектот изнесува 1.655.459 евра, кој е поделен помеѓу 12 партнери од 8 земји. Буџетот е наменет за пилот проекти, истражување, развој на методологии и вклучување на засегнатите страни.

Водечки партнер на проектот CIRCLEWASTE е Заедницата на општини на Словенија.

Партнери во проектот

Проектот вклучува 12 партнери од следните земји:

• Словенија (CPU)
• Италија
• Грција
• Хрватска
• Северна Македонија
• Црна Гора
• Португалија
• Босна и Херцеговина

Очекувани резултати

• 50% намалување на е-отпадот до 2030 година во целиот регион АДРИОН.
• Зголемување на стапката на рециклирање на 75%.
• Развој и тестирање на пилот проекти во различни региони, фокусирајќи се на новите технологии за собирање и рециклирање на е-отпад.
• Имплементација на иновативни бизнис модели кои промовираат циркуларна економија и создаваат нови работни места во секторот е-отпад.
• Долгорочна одржливост на резултатите од проектот преку прекугранична соработка и трансфер на знаење во други региони со слични предизвици.

About the project

The CircleWaste project addresses the critical issue of electronic waste in the Adriatic-Ionian region by fostering a sustainable, circular approach to waste management. This initiative unites 12 partners across eight countries to create innovative, environmentally conscious solutions that mitigate both environmental and economic challenges associated with e-waste.

CircleWaste aims to establish a circular economy for e-waste by creating a business model that ensures a continuous supply of e-waste for reuse, refurbishment, and recycling, effectively reducing the waste’s linearity in the ADRION area. To achieve this, the project has developed a Transnational Strategy for e-waste management alongside regional Territorial Action Plans, which are designed to address the unique needs of local communities.

Through pilot initiatives like Smart Delivery Boxes and Prepaid Return Labels, CircleWaste promotes responsible e-waste collection and recycling practices. By increasing e-waste collection rates and fostering regional cooperation, CircleWaste engages the public in sustainable consumption practices, leveraging digital innovation and community partnerships. These efforts contribute to EU sustainability goals and support a resilient circular economy, setting a replicable example for sustainable e-waste management across Europe.

Key objectives

• Develop innovative solutions to increase resource efficiency in e-waste recycling.
• Promote circular economy models in the e-waste sector throughout the ADRION region.
• Support the development and implementation of territorial action plans for the regional application of circular economy principles.
• To ensure long-term sustainability and cross-border cooperation in e-waste management.

Project budget
The entire project budget amounts to €1,655,459 , which is divided between 12 partners from 8 countries. The budget is intended for pilot projects, research, development of methodologies and involvement of stakeholders.

The leading partner of the CIRCLEWASTE project is the Association of Municipalities of Slovenia.

Partners in the project
The project includes 12 partners from the following countries:

• Slovenia (CPU)
• Italy
• Greece
• Croatia
• North Macedonia
• Montenegro
• Portugal
• Bosnia and Herzegovina

Expected results

• 50% reduction of e-waste by 2030 throughout the ADRION region.
• Increasing the recycling rate to 75%.
• Development and testing of pilot projects in different regions, focusing on new technologies for the collection and recycling of e-waste.
• Implementation of innovative business models that promote a circular economy and create new jobs in the e-waste sector.
• Long-term sustainability of project results through cross-border cooperation and transfer of knowledge to other regions with similar challenges.

This project is supported by the Interreg IPA ADRION programme under the Interreg Funds (European Regional Development Fund and IPA III), co-funded by European Union.

EYA organized a Thematic Testing Workshop on Module 5: Engaging Under-Represented Youth in Politics which took place from 4th to 6th of September in Kichevo, North Macedonia.

The Thematic Testing Workshop was carefully designed to explore effective strategies for engaging under-represented youth in political activities. The planning involved identifying key themes relevant to youth engagement and developing activities that would encourage meaningful participation and feedback. The workshop aimed to test and refine methods and tools to be used in broader outreach efforts.

Participants appreciated the interactive nature of the module, particularly the role-playing exercises, case studies, and group discussions, which made the learning experience dynamic and practical. Participants shared their experiences and provided feedback on the strategies tested. Facilitators led a discussion on the effectiveness of different approaches and gathered insights for improvement.

The module 5 on Engaging Under-Represented Youth in Politics successfully achieved its objectives by equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to foster greater political participation among youth. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the barriers faced by under-represented youth in political engagement, including systemic obstacles, lack of resources, and social challenges. They learned about effective strategies for overcoming these barriers, such as targeted outreach, leadership development, and advocacy skills. Participants developed practical leadership and advocacy skills through workshops, role-playing, and case studies.

They learned how to effectively communicate their message, mobilize support, and implement advocacy campaigns. Strategies for implementing inclusive policies were explored, providing participants with tools and best practices for advocating for systemic change. Participants cultivated a stronger sense of agency and empowerment, understanding their potential impact in political processes and the importance of their involvement.

The module facilitated networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with peers, mentors, and experts, thus strengthening their support systems and collaborative efforts.

Participants said about module 5:

“Fullest thanks for these 3 days full of activities and interesting things. I think that all of that project was so amazing and interesting for all participants, so I want to be in this project again and I hope that all participant thinks the same.” – Ivana Nokoska

“It was really good and the different opinions really changed my perspective and the way I viewed activities like this.” – Anastasija Mingovska

“I was activity engaged and i really enjoyed the discussion. I think that more young people should be at things like this and it really made me realize how important is to be a part of things like this” – Martina Trajkoska

#Erasmus+ #YEA #YouthEmpowerment #EUProjects
#erasmusplus #YEAProject #europeanyouthtogether #europeanyearofyouth

Project Number: 101090065

Introduction

Over the past few months, a series of impactful transnational trainings brought together young leaders and decision-makers from across Europe to empower and inspire a new generation of change makers. Held in Croatia, Sweden, and Romania, these events focused on critical aspects of youth participation in democratic processes, fostering dialogue, and enhancing the role of young people in shaping the future of Europe.

These trainings provided invaluable opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, learn new skills, and build networks that will help them drive positive change in their local communities and beyond. By addressing key topics such as EU participation, youth policy, and democratic institutions, these events have contributed significantly to the ongoing efforts to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and valued at every level of governance.

Transnational Training Activity “Being a Europe Change Maker” in Croatia

In September 2023, the picturesque Island Čiovo in Croatia hosted the European Change Maker Training Course, part of the ERASMUS+ Youth Empowerment Academy (YEA). Over two days, 14 young leaders from seven countries, supported by eight partner organizations, gathered to develop their skills as change makers.

The course significantly enhanced participants’ knowledge and skills, promoted cross-cultural understanding, and created valuable networking opportunities. The action plans developed are set to drive positive change across Europe. This training was a pivotal step in empowering youth to become effective change makers, leaving a lasting legacy for future initiatives.

Dialogue of youth-representatives of youth councils and decision makers in Sweden

In November 2023, Orrefors, Sweden, hosted a pivotal dialogue event that united 40 participants, including youth council representatives and decision-makers, for a dynamic two-day discussion. This event, designed to enhance youth participation in policy-making, focused on critical topics that impact young people across Europe.

The dialogue successfully supported and enhanced the visibility of youth councils, facilitated the exchange of knowledge, and fostered collaborative efforts to improve youth policy-making. By creating a platform for meaningful discussion and direct engagement with decision-makers, the event aimed to empower young people to actively participate in shaping future policies.

This dialogue stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to strengthen youth involvement in democratic processes and highlight the crucial role of youth councils in shaping effective and inclusive policies.

Youth Lab in Romania

In November 2023, a dynamic Youth Lab took place in Romania, gathering 24 participants from six partner organizations for an intensive four-day workshop. This event was designed to deepen understanding of democratic institutions and the role of decision-makers, while actively engaging young people in the democratic process.

The Youth Lab provided participants with valuable insights into the functioning of democratic institutions and the decision-making process. By engaging in critical thinking and collaborative activities, attendees developed actionable ideas for enhancing democratic participation and generating economic benefits. The videos produced by participants highlighted their unique perspectives and learning outcomes, serving as a testament to the event’s success.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarships

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are high-level and integrated study programmes, at the master level. They are designed and delivered by an international partnership of higher education institutions (HEI). They involve at least three HEI from three different countries, of which at least two must be EU Member States and third countries associated with the Programme.

Who can apply

Students at the master’s level from all over the world can apply. You must have a bachelor’s degree (first degree) or be in your last year of bachelor studies and graduate before the master’s programme starts.

What is covered

Scholarships cover the cost of a student’s participation in the programme, travel and a living allowance (varies based on the destination country).

The programme covers the period of your study, research, placement activities, thesis preparation and defence, in line with the requirement of the joint Master. The latter comprises at least 2 study periods in 2 countries, which must be different from your country of residence. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters offer different study tracks to meet this condition.

Duration of the masters: 1 to 2 academic years (60, 90 or 120 ECTS credits).

Type of degree awarded: Either a joint degree (i.e. one single degree certificate issued on behalf of at least two higher education institutions) or multiple degrees (i.e. at least two-degree certificates issued by two higher education institutions of the consortium).

Where can you go: EU Member States + Partner countries

How to apply

You should consult the online catalogue of Erasmus Mundus masters programmes. There you will find detailed information about these programmes with a description of the course of study, a list of the participating universities and entry requirements. For further support, do not hesitate to contact directly the relevant university.

Deadline to apply: most consortia require applications to be submitted between October and January, for courses starting the following academic year.

Read more here.

Women Scholarship for International Students

Educations site offers scholarships for international female students beginning their undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate studies abroad in the Fall 2024 semester or after.

Who can apply

Women international students from any country enrolled in any undergraduate, graduate, or post-graduate (doctoral-level) degree program at a college, university, or institute of higher education where they’re not permanent residents.

Funding

Up to $5,000 that can be used to cover tuition fees.

How to apply

Fill out a short form in English here.

Deadline: 25 August 2024, 12:00 CEST.

Read more here.

Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs is a cross-border exchange programme which gives new or aspiring entrepreneurs the chance to learn from experienced entrepreneurs running small businesses in other participating countries.
It supports new entrepreneurs with the skills necessary to start and/or successfully run a small business in Europe. New entrepreneurs gather and exchange knowledge and business ideas with an experienced entrepreneur, with whom they stay and collaborate for a period of 1 to 6 months.

To participate you need to

• be firmly planning to start a business, based on a viable business plan OR have less than 3 years of total entrepreneurial experience;
• be over 18 years old;
• be a permanent resident in one of the Participating Countries
• have a concrete project or business idea, reflected in a business plan.

How to apply

• register via the online form and submit your CV and business plan;
• new entrepreneurs can only take part in the programme once.

The programme encourages the participation of experienced/host entrepreneurs as well.

Interested host entrepreneurs based in the USA (states of New York and Pennsylvania), Israel and Singapore can take part in the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs Global.
There the exchange of European new entrepreneur and experienced host entrepreneur lasts between 1-3 months.

Find out more: https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu