Human Rights in Focus

Human Rights in Focus was an Erasmus+ KA152-YOU youth exchange project that took place in Gebze, Kocaeli (Türkiye) between 21–30 October 2025. The project involved 54 young people aged 18–25 from Germany, Romania, Bulgaria, Türkiye, Spain, and Czechia, with at least 50% of participants being young migrants or children of migrant families.

The project focused on key challenges in Europe, including nationalism, misinformation, social exclusion, and the marginalization of migrant communities. It aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of European values such as human dignity, democracy, freedom, equality, and the rule of law, while empowering migrant youth to stand up for human rights in their local communities.

The project was carried out using non-formal and informal learning methods, including interactive workshops, simulations, role plays, storytelling, art-based activities, debates, field visits, and digital campaign production. These activities supported participants in developing human rights awareness, advocacy skills, and self-confidence to engage in democratic and community life.

As part of the program, an official visit to the Gebze Municipality was organized. The mayor welcomed the participants at the town hall and shared local policies related to youth empowerment, human rights, and support for migrants and refugees.

Overall, the project promoted inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and active citizenship, and it contributed to long-term human rights awareness beyond the project period.

Project Objectives

• To increase young people’s awareness and understanding of human rights and European values

• To empower migrant youth to recognize and advocate for their rights

• To strengthen participants’ democratic participation and civic engagement

• To promote inclusion, diversity, and intercultural dialogue among young people from different backgrounds

• To encourage youth to take active roles in their local communities after the exchange

Project Outcomes

• A “Human Rights in Focus” educational booklet developed by participants

• Digital advocacy outputs, including videos, social media content, and campaigns

• Youthpass certificates recognizing participants’ learning outcomes

• Youth-led initiatives and local actions implemented after returning to home countries

• Increased confidence, awareness, and advocacy skills among participants