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Article written by
Josephine Schnee
Project officer
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Location
Sarajevo
Sarajevo
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Youth Bridges Europe is an international youth exchange that brings together 60 young people (aged 17–27) from Germany, France, and Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore how democracy, conflict, reconciliation, and collective memory shape Europe today.
The programme combines two in-person exchanges — in Bosnia and Herzegovina (1–6 October 2025) and Germany (15–19 April 2026) — with online sessions and creative follow-up activities. Participants will visit memorial sites, take part in workshops on civic participation and media literacy, as well as visiting Srebrenica and Mostar.
Participation is free of charge, with all travel and accommodation costs covered (up to €300). The programme is open to young people from all backgrounds who are curious, motivated, and eager to contribute to shaping Europe’s democratic future.
Registration for this event has been closed.
1. - 6. October
During the Bosnia exchange, participants will immerse themselves in a wide-ranging programme that combines historical reflection, civic education, and creative collaboration.
Day 1 – Arrival in Sarajevo
Participants settle in, get to know one another through interactive activities, and begin exploring Sarajevo with a Living Monument walking tour.
Day 2 – Youth & Political Participation
Workshops on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s political system, youth participation, and the EU integration process. The day concludes with a visit to the War Childhood Museum and group reflections.
Day 3 – Democracy & Media Literacy
Training sessions on democratic skills and civic engagement, followed by a workshop on media literacy and historical distortion. Group activities encourage boundary-crossing and critical thinking.
Day 4 – Srebrenica Memorial
Journey to the Srebrenica Memorial Centre, with space for awareness, remembrance, and dialogue. Travel continues to Mostar, with time for reflection along the way.
Day 5 – Lessons from Mostar
Meetings with local civil society organisations and a Citizens’ Assembly, learning about participatory democracy in practice. Group reflections highlight key lessons from the exchange so far.
Day 6 – Remembering & Looking Ahead
Dialogue with the Jewish community in Mostar, exploring remembrance of the Second World War and minority participation in Bosnia’s political system. A final brunch session wraps up key takeaways and prepares for the next phase in Germany.
By combining site visits, expert input, and creative workshops, the Bosnia exchange offers participants both a deeper understanding of Europe’s democratic challenges and inspiration for shaping its future.
Find our more on our website.
Our partners
Europe
