EUROPESA is a regional youth information and youth participation initiative that aims to bring European opportunities closer to young people, particularly those living in rural areas. Europesa is a physical youth-friendly space in Valga County that provides accessible, reliable and systematic youth information and supports young people’s active participation at both local and European levels.
The main objectives of the project are to increase young people’s awareness of European opportunities (such as Erasmus+, DiscoverEU and the European Solidarity Corps), to support young people’s initiative, participation and self-expression, and to create a sustainable youth information and participation platform that combines information, experience and guidance.
The primary target group consists of young people in Valga County, including those living in rural areas and young people with limited previous access to international opportunities. Indirectly, the project also involves youth workers, teachers and community leaders.
Europesa is continuously developed as both an organisation and a platform. Youth information events and info days are organised, European opportunities are introduced, and young people are supported in application and participation processes. Europesa includes an active youth group where young people can voluntarily participate, propose ideas and develop them together.
In addition, Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps projects are written and coordinated through Europesa, enabling young people to participate in international youth exchanges, learning mobility and solidarity projects.
The project operates without external project funding and is based on voluntary engagement. Europesa ensures 24/7 access to a physical space for young people. Methodologically, the project is based on non-formal learning, experiential learning and youth participation. Europesa is led by the Eurodesk Estonia representative in Valga County, whose role is to support and empower young people.
EUROPESA directly corresponds to the thematic category of youth participation and democracy by creating real and sustainable opportunities for young people to actively engage in decision-making processes, shape activities that affect them, and experience democratic principles through practice. The initiative moves beyond consultation and positions young people as initiators, co-creators, and active actors in their community.
Europesa includes active youth groups where young people can voluntarily propose ideas, take part in discussions, make joint decisions, and develop their own initiatives together. Young people’s opinions and proposals are taken into account when planning and implementing activities, strengthening their sense of ownership, responsibility, and shared decision-making, which are core elements of democratic participation.
In addition, several youth groups have used Europesa as a counselling and support space when developing their own initiatives. Through guidance and mentoring provided at Europesa, young people have prepared and submitted youth-led project proposals under the local youth council framework. This supports young people in navigating democratic structures, understanding local decision-making processes, and turning their ideas into concrete actions.
Europesa also strengthens youth participation by involving young people in the preparation and implementation of Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps projects. Participation in international projects enables young people to experience cooperation, solidarity, and democratic values in practice at both local and European levels.
The initiative is led by the Eurodesk Estonia representative in Valga County, whose role is to support and guide young people rather than make decisions on their behalf. This approach creates a safe and empowering environment where young people learn democracy through action, developing self-confidence, critical thinking skills, and active civic engagement.
