The Words of Europe project, bolstered by the European Commission's CERV program, has embarked on its seventh phase, delving deeper into the essence of European values. As the project nears its conclusion in late 2024, Work Package 7 takes center stage, focusing on developing and testing a participatory model that involves refining, questioning, and expanding upon the ideas that have emerged throughout the project's journey. Two recent events, held in Budapest at the BKSZC Gundel Károly Vendéglátó és Turisztikai Technikum, have exemplified the project's commitment to engaging youth in discussions on societal issues through the lens of art.

March 12th: Fostering Creativity and Social Awareness
The first event, targeted at 17-year-old students, commenced with an overview of the project's objectives followed by icebreaker games to set a collaborative tone. Students then engaged in a brainstorming session on the tools of art, exploring avenues such as poetry, painting, and collage to address pressing social issues. Divided into smaller groups, each focusing on a specific medium, participants delved into topics ranging from environmental sustainability to workers' rights. Through their artworks, they voiced concerns and proposed questions for EU candidates, embodying the essence of active citizenship.

Group A's poignant poem and collage tackled global warming, urging action through the lens of nature's plea for help. Group B's painting shed light on the plight of the homeless, prompting candidates to address accommodation and job provision. Group C's drawing emphasized the urgency of pollution, while Group D proposed a user-friendly bike route across Europe to combat carbon emissions. Group E highlighted transportation challenges and workers' rights through an online collage, advocating for improved conditions. Group F underscored the importance of recycling through their online collage, promoting sustainable practices.

March 18th: Empowering Youth Voices Through Art
Similarly, the second event, attended by 10th-grade students, fostered creativity intertwined with social consciousness. Beginning with an overview and icebreaker games, participants embarked on a journey of artistic expression. Through mediums like clay, painting, and drawing, students addressed issues ranging from global warming's impact on wildlife to homelessness and inflation. Their artworks not only served as expressions of concern but also as catalysts for change, with proposals for EU candidates to consider.

Group A's clay sculptures depicted extinct animals, highlighting environmental degradation. Group B's clay artwork depicted a homeless man, advocating for shelter and employment opportunities. Group C and Group D's paintings addressed inflation and currency concerns, prompting discussions on economic stability. Group E proposed a program for the elderly, promoting social engagement and well-being.

These two Hungarian events from Work Package 7 exemplify the Words of Europe project's commitment to fostering dialogue, creativity, and civic engagement among Europe's youth. Through the medium of art, participants have voiced their concerns, proposed solutions, and questioned policymakers, contributing to the shaping of a more inclusive and values-driven European Union. As the project progresses, these initiatives serve as beacons of hope, empowering the next generation to actively participate in building a better tomorrow.