VEBY: Virtual Exchanges for Balkan Youth

VEBY: Virtual Exchanges for Balkan Youth

The ongoing Erasmus+ project (2023-2025) "Virtual Exchanges for Balkan Youth" (VEBY) is a response to the pressing issues of disinformation, polarization, social exclusion, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, VEBY is a transformative initiative designed to empower young people in the Balkans through digital skills development, resilience against disinformation, and cross-cultural dialogue.

The VEBY project emerged as a direct response to the challenges faced by young individuals during the Covid-19 pandemic and the longstanding geopolitical tensions in the Balkan region. This initiative addresses the need for digital literacy and constructive engagement, particularly among marginalized groups such as ethnic minorities and economically disadvantaged youth.

Project Objectives

Empowerment Through Digital Skills: VEBY seeks to equip young people with essential digital skills, enabling them to navigate the digital landscape effectively and counter disinformation.

Inclusion and Diversity: The project aims to ensure the inclusion of youth from diverse backgrounds by creating guidelines and offering training to youth workers and educators. These measures will foster participation in virtual youth exchanges, promoting a safe and inclusive environment.

Promoting Digitalization: VEBY places emphasis on introducing participants to interactive digital tools for non-formal education and raising awareness about recognizing and countering fake news. This digital focus contributes to reducing carbon emissions by advocating for virtual exchanges over physical mobility.

Participation in Democratic Life: The project encourages meaningful dialogue among young people, allowing them to exchange viewpoints, discuss local and national concerns, and engage in co-creating an online Conference that champions unity, active participation, inclusion, and human rights.

VEBY takes a multi-faceted approach to achieve its objectives:

• The project begins with an in-depth analysis of the specific barriers faced by marginalized youth, enabling the development of tailored strategies for their active involvement.

•  Through the insights gained, comprehensive guidelines are created to support youth workers, educators, and staff members in facilitating virtual exchanges that prioritize inclusivity and diversity.

• Participants engage with digital tools during trainings and virtual exchanges, enhancing their ability to critically assess information and develop impactful online campaigns.

• Acknowledging the unique needs of each partner and target group, the project emphasizes finding common ground while promoting unity and tolerance among participants.

Outcomes

• The project will compile experience, findings, and best practices into a Manual accessible to youth workers, educators, and organizations.

• Increased digital literacy and resilience against disinformation among participants.

• Enhanced cross-cultural understanding and civic engagement.

• Strengthened connections between Balkan youth communities and promotion of EU opportunities.

Co-Ordinator: USB

Partners: Youth Alliance – Krusevo (YAK), Udruzenje Agencija lokalne demokratije iz Mostara (LDA Mostar), Together For Life - Albania (TFL)