Gathering of Youth at Wiesbaden's Global Convention
Wiesbaden, Germany - The Children, Youth, and Neighborhood Center Biebrich (JUZ Biebrich) recently hosted a youth exchange with a group from the Arka Youth Center in Shkodra, Albania. This international encounter aimed at fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding between young people from both communities.
The primary objectives of the exchange included promoting social integration, encouraging cooperation on youth-related topics, and enabling participants to share experiences and ideas in a supportive environment. Such exchanges typically focus on empowering youth through workshops, cultural activities, and teamwork exercises, although the specific program details were not fully disclosed.
The youth exchange was guided by Dr. Patricia Becher, the deputy mayor for social affairs, education, and housing in Wiesbaden. During the visit, the young participants engaged in various activities such as climbing at the Neroberg climbing forest, visiting the Dialog Museum in Frankfurt, participating in a breakdance contest at the Schlachthof, joint cooking, and a trip to Rüdesheim. They also delved into Jewish history in Wiesbaden and its current relevance, in collaboration with Spiegelbild - Political Education Wiesbaden e.V.
A highlight of the exchange was the visit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on Monday, August 4th. Here, the youth discussed Europe's role in social justice and Albania's prospects for EU membership. The project, a strong statement by young people for a solidarity Europe, was funded by the EU Erasmus+ Youth program.
This exchange reflects ongoing efforts by JUZ Biebrich to engage internationally with youth organizations to broaden horizons and build global friendships. The event went beyond a holiday program, enabling personal encounters, joint learning, and mutual recognition. Citizens can contact the responsible department or office with any questions.
The youth exchange was organized by JUZ Biebrich in cooperation with the Wiesbaden International office of the department of youth work and the Arka Youth Center Shkodra. The focus of the event was on the department of youth work's annual theme: "Social (In)Justice - Let's Get That Good Life!". Exploring the city of Strasbourg made Europe feel tangible and close for the participating young people.
Dr. Patricia Becher stated that young people who meet across borders, listen to each other, and think about social justice are a strong democratic promise. The encounter was a return visit following the Wiesbaden youth's trip to Albania in the summer of 2024. The youth received their EU Youth Pass, a symbol of their commitment, learning processes, and growing intercultural competence.
[1] Information sourced from the Press Office of the State Capital Wiesbaden, located at Schlossplatz 6, 65183 Wiesbaden.
- During the youth exchange between JUZ Biebrich and Arka Youth Center, participants not only engaged in activities like climbing, cooking, and museum visits, but also discussed topics related to education-and-self-development, politics, and general-news, such as Europe's role in social justice and Albania's prospects for EU membership.
- The department of youth work's annual theme for the event, "Social (In)Justice - Let's Get That Good Life!", encompassed discussions on lifestyle issues and social integration alongside learning about social justice and intercultural competence, evidenced by the EU Youth Pass received by participants.
