The YOUTH IN CONNECTION project, a collaborative effort under the CHANCE Network and supported by the European Union, has been a journey of empowerment, advocacy, and systemic change. Designed to combat organized crime, foster transparency, and strengthen democratic participation, the project has successfully mobilized youth, civil society, and institutions to create a more just and equitable Europe.

Empowering Voices, Strengthening Communities

At the heart of the project was the commitment to empower individuals and organizations. Through dynamic training sessions held in Rome and Malta, civil society leaders gained critical tools to address corruption, advocate for transparency, and foster resilience in their communities. These gatherings were more than training events—they were spaces for collaboration, where diverse perspectives came together to forge innovative strategies against organized crime.

Youth engagement formed another pillar of the project, emphasizing the role of informed, active citizens in shaping Europe’s future. Campaigns and discussions linked to the 2024 European Parliament elections underscored the importance of voting, civic responsibility, and the fight against corruption. These efforts ignited conversations and inspired new levels of participation in democratic processes.

Research That Informs Action

Central to the project were two pivotal reports that advanced understanding and action on key issues:

1. The D3.3 Report on Anti-Corruption Strategy in the EU
This report shed light on systemic gaps in anti-corruption frameworks across Member States. It provided clear, actionable recommendations to strengthen whistleblower protections, enhance transparency, and promote cross-border cooperation. The report serves as a guide for aligning national policies with the EU Anti-Corruption Directive and fostering accountability at all levels.

2. The Comparative Electoral Report
Through a thorough analysis of political party manifestos, this report highlighted areas of alignment with CHANCE’s priorities. It encouraged dialogue on critical issues such as social justice, transparency, and the social reuse of confiscated assets, offering valuable insights to policymakers, civil society, and citizens alike.

Both reports reflect the project’s commitment to combining research and advocacy, ensuring that evidence-based insights drive meaningful change.

Catalyzing Systemic Change

The project’s achievements extend beyond individual actions, contributing to broader systemic change. Advocacy campaigns and strategic discussions brought attention to the importance of civic engagement, the fight against corruption, and the need for cross-border collaboration. The development of the Strategic Plan 2024/2025 ensures that these efforts are not only impactful but also sustainable, providing a clear roadmap for future action within the CHANCE Network.

This work has strengthened the ties between civil society and institutions, creating a foundation for continued collaboration in combating organized crime and corruption. It has also reinforced the importance of policies that promote transparency and social justice, fostering trust between citizens and their governments.

A Vision for the Future

The outcomes of the YOUTH IN CONNECTION project offer a compelling vision of what can be achieved when youth, civil society, and institutions work together. Looking ahead, the CHANCE Network is committed to building on this momentum by:

● Expanding training and educational initiatives to empower even more voices.

● Strengthening governance structures to enhance decision-making and collaboration.

● Advocating for policies that align with the principles of transparency, equity, and social justice.

These priorities reflect a shared dedication to creating a Europe where justice, democracy, and resilience prevail.

For more information on the findings and recommendations from the project, you can explore the following reports:

● D3.3 Report on Anti-Corruption Strategy in the EU

● Comparative Electoral Report

Together, let us continue to work toward a Europe free from organized crime and corruption, where active citizenship and social justice thrive.

Downloads