Do young people have a real impact on the future of the European Union or are they merely passive observers of decisions made somewhere “in Brussels”? And if they do have influence, how can they use it, where can they raise their voices, and how can European values be translated into concrete action?

 

We invite you to take part in a conference that places young people at the centre of the debate on the future of Europe. The event will focus on the role of the younger generation, particularly students and individuals with international mobility experience, in shaping a democratic and open European Union.

 

 

The conference will create a space to discuss what young people can do with the European Union, and what the European Union can do with the voice of the younger generation. We will explore barriers to youth participation in public life, EU decision-making mechanisms, the role of programmes such as Erasmus+ in building a European identity and how mobility, volunteering and local engagement can strengthen democracy.

 

Why now?

The period following the European elections and the conclusion of Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU is a time when priorities and directions for the Union’s development in the coming years are being set. Ongoing discussions on the new EU Multiannual Financial Framework for 2028-2034 mean that decisions taken today will have a tangible impact on the future of young people in Europe. This is a moment when the voice of the younger generation should be heard particularly clearly.

 

Why is this conference unique?

The event is entirely organised by students who experience European integration in practice on a daily basis. As a result, the conference offers an authentic youth perspective and creates space for an open and honest dialogue with representatives of institutions, universities and civil society organisations.

 

The conference is addressed to:

  • young people interested in the European Union, democracy and active citizenship,
  • students and graduates of programmes such as Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Corps and other mobility programmes,
  • representatives of higher education institutions, public and local authorities,
  • youth and non-governmental organisations,
  • all individuals with experience in European programmes or working with young people.

The programme will include panel discussions, interactive thematic sessions and opportunities for dialogue between young people and decision-makers, practitioners and experts. In addition, the conference aims to strengthen civic competences, counter disinformation and build lasting connections between local and European levels of action.

Organisational information

Date: 19 March 2026

Time: 10:00

Venue: Congress Centre of Wrocław University of Science and Technology

Address: Janiszewskiego 8, 50-372 Wrocław

Participation in the conference is free of charge, however, prior registration is required. The conference will be held in Polish language. 

The conference is organised by Erasmus Student Network Poland as part of the international Speak Out project, which aims to strengthen young people’s civic participation and their involvement in the debate on the future of Europe. The event is co-organised by Erasmus Student Network Wrocław Tech and Wrocław University of Science and Technology.