Our first training session in the circle of the Council of Europe's quality label youth centres

From November 18 to 22, 2024, we had the opportunity to participate in the »Educational Forum for the Staff of Youth Centres in the Network of the Council of Europe Quality Label for Youth Centres«. This event took place at the European Youth Centre Budapest and marked another milestone for us: it was our first training after recently joining the network of youth centres awarded the Council of Europe Quality Label.

Exchange and Inspiration within the Network

The forum brought together over 20 representatives from youth centres across Europe. Its aim was to exchange experiences and practices of educational staff, develop new approaches, and foster collaboration within the network. For us, as the European Youth Education Centre (EJBM), it was especially valuable to meet our colleagues from other quality labelled youth centres and develop initial joint project ideas.

Highlights of the program included lectures, workshops, and educational fairs that showcased innovative approaches, tools, and methods for educational work. Topics such as youth policy, human rights education, education for democratic citizenship, youth participation, inclusivity, and accessibility were at the forefront – all of which are central to our work with young people.

Inspiration from Budapest

We found it particularly inspiring to gain insights into the working methods of the European Youth Centre Budapest itself. Their work in actively involving young people in societal processes and educating them in a European context closely aligns with our own mission.

Context and Future Perspectives

The forum took place during a dynamic political phase, marked by the revision of the European Charter on the Participation of Young People and the upcoming Youth Ministers’ Conference in 2025. It provided an ideal platform for developing ideas on how youth centres can actively contribute to these processes.

Participating in this forum was a fantastic opportunity to broaden our horizons and further develop our educational work on a European level. We thank the European Youth Centre Budapest for hosting this inspiring event and look forward to collaborating within the network – for strong, connected youth work across Europe!