This project addressed social inclusion and equal participation, focusing on the realities of people with disabilities and individuals facing fewer opportunities, while actively tackling discrimination and exclusion.
Implemented through a series of Youth Exchanges, Training Courses, and Training of Trainers, the project created learning spaces to examine the social, cultural, and legal frameworks affecting people with disabilities in different countries. Participants were encouraged to reflect on rights, accessibility, and social attitudes, while gaining first-hand insight into how societies respond to diverse needs and differences.
The core objective was to promote meaningful encounters with disability by emphasizing shared experiences and human commonalities, while reducing stereotypes, fears, and misconceptions. Inclusion was approached as a rights-based process, requiring awareness, responsibility, and active engagement to counter exclusion and marginalisation.
The learning activities aimed to:
- Compare national approaches to disability and fewer opportunities, highlighting cultural differences and common challenges
- Critically reflect on stereotypes, prejudice, and societal narratives related to disability and marginality
- Explore the impact of gender on inclusion and participation, with attention to multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination affecting women with disabilities and LGBTQ+ individuals
- Analyse power relations within groups and everyday contexts, and their influence on participation and decision-making
- Equip youth workers and social practitioners with innovative tools and methodologies to support inclusive practices in their local communities
- Strengthen inclusive communication styles that support dialogue, collaboration, and shared decision-making
The educational approach relied on experiential and creative methods, such as Theatre of the Oppressed, storytelling, songwriting, and visual narratives through photo and video. These methodologies supported reflection, dialogue, and non-violent conflict transformation, while facilitating the exchange of experiences and good practices among participants.
Through this project, partner organisations enhanced their competences in inclusive youth work, non-formal education, and international cooperation, contributing to more accessible, participatory, and rights-based practices within the Erasmus+ framework.
