The young people presented their experiences and impressions in the form of photos, field reports and creative contributions. The activities ranged from an intercultural cooking project to an excursion to Frankfurt and a sustainability workshop by the "climate editorial team", impressively demonstrating how active exchange can raise awareness of global challenges.

Head of Social Affairs Dr. Patricia Becher ceremoniously presented the EU Youthpass certificates to the participants and praised the meeting in her speech as an example of European youth education: "This week was characterized by new friendships, intensive exchange and a shared view of global challenges such as climate change. International youth encounters not only promote mutual understanding, but also sharpen our sense of responsibility for our common future. Such experiences are invaluable for the personal development of young people. When young people are given the opportunity to get to know other countries and the realities of life, it changes their view of the world - and of themselves. This is exactly the kind of impetus we need in a democratic society."

The youth exchange took place under the motto "Our Planet, Our Future: Youth for Sustainability" and was funded as part of the EU's ERASMUS+ program. It was organized as part of "Wiesbaden International", a city initiative to promote international encounters, in cooperation with the partner organization Horbel from the Basque Country and the long-standing WiesPaten companies R+V Versicherung AG, SCHUFA Holding GmbH and Huhle Stahl- und Metallbau.

The guests from the Basque Country were visibly moved and grateful: "This meeting was a great enrichment for all of us," was how they summed up their impressions. Although the week in Wiesbaden ended on Friday, the exchange continues: in October, the young people from Wiesbaden will travel to Ordizia to continue the European dialog together.

For young people interested in a stay abroad, the Youth Information Center (JIZ) offers comprehensive advice on various programs such as au pairs, voluntary services, work & travel, youth encounters, internships or student exchanges. The advice is free and confidential. JIZ, Schwalbacher Straße 6, 65185 Wiesbaden, phone (0611) 318300, e-mail: jizwiesbadendeopening hours: Monday to Friday from 1 to 6 p.m., www.jiz-wiesbaden.de.

Further information on international youth encounters and exchange programs can be found on the Wiesbaden International website at www.wiesbaden-international.de. (opens in a new tab)

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