Unser Land Europa

<< Background >>The UnsEU project was designed to meet the specific needs of the partner organizations in rural areas, aiming to offer educational opportunities focused on European identity, civic engagement, and democratic participation. The goal was to inform and empower citizens in remote, aging communities in Bulgaria, Germany and Spain, where enthusiasm for European ideals was often lacking, and knowledge about the advantages of European values was minimal.To address these challenges, the partners considered that our rural adult learners required education on civic matters, European identity, inclusion, and diversity, enabling them to become active participants in the European democratic process and contribute to the decisions about the Union's future.The UnsEU project consortium created platforms for rural residents to gather, learn, discuss, and exchange ideas and initiatives. This collaboration encouraged civic involvement and promoted democratic principles by fostering active citizenship, enhancing public participation, and strengthening ties to local community life and European networks. These efforts were in line with the two horizontal and one sectorial priorities outlined by the Erasmus+ Programme, and the adult education sector.<< Objectives >>The UnsEU project created a space for rural communities from Bulgaria, Germany and Spain to engage in discussions on key topics such as civic participation, equality, democracy, inclusion, and diversity across daily life. It promoted learning opportunities that connected individuals from various cultures and generations.The partnership aimed to meet the specific goals of the Erasmus+ Programme by facilitating education on EU values and policies through public discussions and workshops, focusing on diverse age groups in rural areas. Its objectives were to strengthen the European identity, promote active involvement in the Union's democratic processes, and reduce social inequalities in isolated regions. The project also sought to address the stigmatization of disadvantaged groups, encouraging tolerance and empathy to build a more cohesive society. By bridging territorial gaps and engaging various local communities, the partnership aimed to contribute to a more inclusive and democratic Europe.Moreover, UnsEU highlighted the importance of political participation, motivating rural citizens to stay informed about EU policies and actively engage in decision-making, including the recently celebrated 2024 European Parliament elections.<< Implementation >>The UnsEU project launched initiatives to involve rural citizens in learning about European issues, fostering a strong European identity and encouraging active participation in communities across Bulgaria, Germany and Spain.Project Management and Coordination provided oversight, managing resources, tracking progress, and addressing challenges.The 1st Transnational Meeting brought partner coordinators together to review goals, delegate roles, and establish responsibilities to ensure the project’s successful implementation.UnsEU centres engaged the rural citizens through various activities, including local workshops, public discussions, international virtual seminars, mobile outreach units, and a creative video contest. These efforts enhanced their understanding of EU history and achievements, facilitated dialogue, expanded online debates for broader outreach, and promoted creative involvement.Public Dissemination & Multiplier events showcased the project’s outcomes, engaged stakeholders, and featured a visit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg by rural citizens.The 2nd TM evaluated the project's progress, refined strategies for future activities, and ensured the sustainability and long-term impact of UnsEU's results.<< Results >>The UnsEU partnership held local workshops in Bulgaria, Germany, and Spain, including 191 participants keen on exploring EU history and achievements. Public debates involved 126 rural people discussing current EU strategies and priorities. Three online seminars brought together 57 attendees from the 3 partner countries, focusing on the Future of Europe topics. The project also deployed mobile units and ran EU promotional campaigns, reaching rural areas in Cisterniga (ES), Veliko Tarnovo (BG), and Suhl (DE). A video contest reached to 40 rural citizens, and a European Parliament visit in Strasbourg was the award for 18 adult learners from the three countries. Additionally, 173 stakeholders took part in multiplier events across the 3 partner regions, and a joint UnsEU Citizens' Paper was edited and shared with EP and PM representatives. Approximately 4.720 citizens were indirectly reached, with the UnsEU website receiving 1.896 visits. The project YouTube channel attracted 1.730 views, with 27.795 impressions from Europe, Asia, North & South America. UnsEU registered 158 social media followers, and expanded its network with 33 members. Lastly, 1.215 e-newsletters and 150 flyers were distributed to stakeholders in four languages.