Diagnosis of the problem
The rise of authoritarianism, political extremism, disinformation and insufficient involvement of young people are important contemporary challenges for European democracy. The project is a response to the traditionally low level of participation of young people in politics, through the use of their potential, aspirations and innovative approaches. The objective of the project is to transform European citizenship and democracy by engaging and supporting young people, creating more inclusive democratic processes and developing policies tailored to the different needs, perspectives and ambitions of European youth, especially those who are currently under-represented.
Subsidy for activities
The European Commission noted and appreciated the idea of scientists from Lodz entitled:
"Visionary roadmaps: Crafting an Inclusive and Participatory European Democracy with Youth and Communities (Youth for Europe / YOUROPE)",
granting a total amount of co-financing of €3 999 598.75, of which €496 132.50 for the University of Lodz.
What's going to happen?
Dr hab. Mariusz Granosik, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz – the grant coordinator, explains:
The project aims to change (broaden) the ways of understanding citizenship and the ways of teaching it in high schools in Europe. We will introduce an innovative idea of education through their own research (Research-Based Education) to selected high schools in 7 European countries (Poland, the Czech Republic, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Turkey). Instead of learning about citizenship, students will conduct research in their own and other local communities (Community-Led Research and Action), recognizing how involvement in common matters is manifested. It is especially important here to study students from disadvantaged (poorer, immigrant, “working”) environments/neighbourhoods. The knowledge they acquire and analyse will then be shared with colleagues from other European countries and the European Youth Parliament, which is also a member of the consortium.
He aslo adds:
Importantly, the project also reserved funds for young researchers (students), because democracy means equal treatment of all its participants and their beliefs. Thus, the learning environment will be created not only on the basis of jointly constructed knowledge, but also on democratic rules for its creation and remuneration.
In parallel, bibliometric and survey studies on citizenship in school curricula in partner countries will be carried out. The conclusions of these studies will be compared with the results of the students' research. As a result, action plans (road maps) will be created to expand the democratic spaces of Europe (mainly in education) with perspectives of citizenship hitherto absent in them. These visions of the future will be popularised, among others, at the European Council as part of one of its pillars: the Conference of International Non-Governmental Organisations (CINGO).
Formally, the project will run 3 years. As part of it the University of Lodz will be represented by:
- the Department of Social Pedagogy and Resocialization (Dr hab. Mariusz Granosik, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz and Dr Anita Gulczyńska), as well as by
- the Department of Educational Studies (Dr Anna Jarkiewicz) both from the Faculty of Educational Sciences.
What is "Horizon Europe"?
"Horizon Europe" is the European Union’s framework programme for research and innovation (R&I) for 2021-2027.
The aim of the programme is to strengthen the EU’s scientific and technological basis, including by developing solutions to address policy priorities like the green and digital transitions. The programme also contributes to achieving sustainable development goals and boosts competitiveness and growth. Horizon Europe is the largest research and innovation programme in the history of the European Union. Over 7 years (2021-2027), a total of €95.5 billion will be allocated for innovative research and innovative solutions.
We should mention that the University of Lodz is among the 12 best public universities in the country that are beneficiaries of the Horizon Europe programme in terms of the amount of funds obtained.
Why do we need "Horizon Europe"?
Europe’s future growth and prosperity depend on its ability to remain a world leader in research and innovation. Horizon Europe provides the means necessary to reach this goal.
The task of the programme is to ensure that the EU’s work in the areas of science and technology has an impact in terms of tackling major global challenges in critical areas such as health, ageing, security, pollution and climate change.
The programme is expected to create up to 100 000 jobs in R&I activities between 2021 and 2027. It is also projected to increase the EU’s gross domestic product (GDP) by up to 0.19% over 25 years.
"Horizon Europe" funds are available for both basic and applied research, for the academic and non-academic sectors, individual researchers and consortia of several institutions.
More information about the programme
Source: Dr hab. Mariusz Granosik (Department of Social Pedagogy and Resocialization, University of Lodz), Joanna Korczyńska (Science Centre, University of Lodz), Horizon Europe
Edit: Michał Gruda (Communications and PR Centre, University of Lodz)
The mission of the University of Lodz is to conduct reliable research and actively disseminate facts and research results so as to wisely educate future generations, be useful to society and courageously respond to the challenges of the modern world. Scientific excellence is always our best compass. Our values include: courage, curiosity, commitment, cooperation and respect.