Change Starts Now: Raising Awareness and Empowering Youth for Women's Rights

The Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project “Change Starts Now” was implemented in Riga, Latvia, from 18–25 April 2025 by Venus Women's Rights Association under the reference number 2024-3-LV02-KA152-YOU-000266537. Bringing together young people from Latvia, Romania, Türkiye, Spain, and Austria, the project aimed to raise awareness about combating violence against women, promote gender equality, and strengthen young people's active citizenship skills in the field of women’s rights. Throughout the project, participants shared experiences from different countries, developed solutions to common challenges, and became part of a collective effort toward social change.

An expert-led session on women’s empowerment and active participation in society encouraged participants to explore the topic from different perspectives. The discussions focused on the impact of violence against women on individuals and communities, while also highlighting prevention strategies and practices that support gender equality. With the contribution of a professional psychological counselor, the session helped participants approach the issue with greater awareness, sensitivity, and understanding.

Group activities dedicated to developing solutions for the protection and advancement of women’s rights placed active participation at the center of the learning process. Working in mixed groups, participants discussed barriers faced by women in areas such as education, employment, entrepreneurship, and work-life balance, while proposing practical and solution-oriented recommendations. As ideas and proposals were presented and exchanged, the importance of cooperation and collective thinking in addressing social challenges was emphasized. The National Women’s Rights Certificates awarded to participants at the end of the activity served as a meaningful recognition of their engagement and contributions.

Interactive learning activities focusing on the global dimensions of violence against women further enhanced participants’ research, presentation, and critical thinking skills. Through discussions on different forms of violence, its causes, its impact on survivors, and global statistics, participants gained a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Conversations based on real-life examples demonstrated that violence against women is not limited to specific societies but represents a universal human rights concern. Participants also exchanged ideas on how to promote a culture of respect within their own communities and contribute to preventing violence.

Preparations for cultural exchange activities and reflection sessions formed another important part of the learning experience. Young people from different countries collaborated to showcase their cultural heritage, strengthening intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. During evaluation sessions, participants reflected on their personal development as well as the knowledge and skills they had gained throughout the project, allowing them to assess their learning journey in a more conscious and meaningful way.