The communal office recently hosted two focus groups, bringing together young people aged 15-30 and youth workers. These sessions provided a platform to discuss the project's goals and gather insights into the aspirations and challenges faced by rural youth.
Key findings revealed that participants, averaging 21.9 years old, came from small villages with limited youth opportunities. Many expressed a desire for more youth-centric activities and spaces like clubs and info desks to foster community and personal growth.
Mentimeter surveys showed significant interest in European programs, with 78% aware of Erasmus+ and 31% having participated in international projects. However, there was a need for more accessible information and opportunities tailored to young people.
While 69% of participants felt satisfied with rural life, they highlighted areas for improvement, such as better public transport and inclusive youth policies. Youth workers echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of creating safe, judgement-free spaces where young people can connect and express themselves.
As the research phase concludes, the vision for our area is clear: empower our youth by creating vibrant, inclusive spaces and opportunities. Suggestions from participants included establishing book clubs, board game nights, a badminton team, and participating in Erasmus+ projects together. These activities aim to foster community spirit and personal development.
The "Creating EU Villages" project in rural Lower Austria represents a significant step towards addressing the needs of rural youth, shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for rural communities across Europe.
