“Europe Engagée”: A Youth Dialogue on Engagement and Europe

From April 4th to 6th, four French EuroPeers took part in Europe Engagée, an event organized for the second year in a row by Erasmus+ France. The goal was to bring together young people from diverse backgrounds and cultures to reflect on youth engagement and the European Union.

This year’s edition gathered 32 participants, all current or former beneficiaries of the Erasmus+ Youth program, the European Solidarity Corps, or the French Civic Service. Over the course of the weekend, they took part in a dynamic program focused on youth participation, European citizenship, and civic commitment.

One of the highlights was our exchange with youth representatives from PROVOX (the French branch of the EU Youth Dialogue), who introduced us to tools and platforms that help ensure young people’s voices are heard in European decision-making. We also met Christine Verger, Vice President of the Jacques Delors Institute, who offered an inspiring look into her career dedicated to European affairs.

Another key moment was heading out into the city to meet European citizens face-to-face and open up a dialogue about how young people perceive the EU and its actions.

A major highlight of the weekend was the EUROPA EXPERIENCE, an immersive simulation of the European Parliament. Stepping into the role of Members of the European Parliament, we debated real issues, negotiated, and experienced how European democracy functions in practice.

The weekend concluded with a living library session, where EuroPeers and special guests shared their personal journeys through civic engagement and activism showcasing the many ways young people can get involved and make a difference.

Throughout the event, we had the chance to connect, learn, and reflect on youth engagement and European citizenship. But more than that, it was an opportunity to build meaningful relationships, exchange experiences, and create lasting memories. I left the weekend with new friends, a head full of inspiring stories, and an even stronger desire to keep getting involved.