Education prepares children and youth to be engaged democratic citizens of Europe, and exchange programmes such as Erasmus+ are a strong lever for this task. At the EU Youth Conference in Copenhagen, we will hear the voice of young people on the future of Erasmus+.
Europeans and democrats by heart
We come from different geographies and cultures across Europe. We were raised in different political systems, in different languages and shaped by different histories. But we are united by something powerful: a feeling of being European by heart. In the midst of rising global tensions and uncertainty, this feeling is more valuable today than it has been for generations.
That is why citizenship is such an important skill. We all know that literacy, mathematics, science and digital competences are essential skills. But every young European should also learn how to engage responsibly in civic life, think critically about the world around them, and participate actively in democracy. Citizenship is not an optional extra; it is crucial for our modern European societies. .
Today, 74 per cent of people across the Union see themselves as EU citizens - a record high. Two in three believe Europeans have more in common than what divides them. These are encouraging signs, but they are fragile. Democracies cannot be taken for granted. Across the continent we see evidence of polarisation, disinformation and declining trust in institutions. In a time when Europe is bolstering its own defence and security capabilities, it is equally important that we build up democratic resilience and a common understanding of who we are. Unless we equip the next generations with the tools to navigate these challenges, we cannot assume they will defend democracy simply because we did.
Citizenship, and a shared sense of European identity, must be taught, trained, and lived. That means giving our youngsters the ability to question, to think critically, to have difficult conversations, and to feel part of something bigger than themselves. Democracy is not just about parliaments or courts. It is also about the sense of "we": that we share history, culture and values worth passing on.
Erasmus+ plays a vital role
Training the muscle of citizenship must begin in schools, already at a young age. All over the continent, teachers and trainers work tirelessly to equip children and young people with the knowledge of alphabets, algebra and algorithms. Acquiring a strong and stable set of basic skills prepares young people to venture further on in their education, careers and in their lives, whether they dream about becoming carpenters or cardiologists. And beyond the educational pathways, the school systems of Europe are the foundation that enables young people to think analytically, reflect critically, and ultimately to become capable and confident citizens of democracies.
'Erasmus+' has a vital role to play in this development. The Erasmus programme is one of Europe's greatest and most loved success stories. With over 16 million people taking part in it so far, the Erasmus programme has created many generations of young people with a truly European identity. It has conquered minds by expanding the educational opportunities for many young people. It has conquered hearts by showing young people different ways of life, by allowing young people to indulge in different cultures, in ways that enrich and strengthen the mutual understanding between Europeans. We might eat different foods and listen to different kinds of music, but we share a common set of values. We must now make sure it does not stop there.
Today, too many young people still miss out on the great mobility opportunities of Erasmus. This must change. Now is the time to be bold. Programmes with a track record of success like Erasmus+ ought to be continued and given even greater social and educational outreach. For younger pupils, maybe as early as primary school, an experience abroad - even as short as one week - can change a child's life, especially for those who might otherwise never leave their town or country. It can open minds, spark curiosity, and start building that vital sense of European belonging. Our vision is clear: No matter their background or where they come from, every child in Europe deserves the chance to discover their connection to Europe - not just in their passports, but in their hearts. The next Erasmus+ programme will be an important part of that.
Involving young people at the EU Youth Conference in Copenhagen
From September 21 to 23, young people from across Europe gathered in Copenhagen for the EU Youth Conference, a cornerstone of the EU Youth Dialogue [link]. This year's theme - the future of Erasmus+ - goes to the heart of what matters most to young Europeans: opportunities, inclusion, and belonging. They know better than anyone the challenges they face and the ambitions they hold for the future. That is why we as policymakers must not only listen to their voices, but be willing to act, and we take away some very valuable insight from our participation in this year's youth conference.
Europe cannot be defended by budgets and battalions alone. It must live in people's minds and hearts. Securing our future is not only about protecting borders, but about protecting values: democracy, solidarity, and freedom. That work starts in the classroom, in exchange programmes, and in the daily experiences that make young people feel part of Europe. The next generation will only defend Europe if they truly feel it is theirs. Let us make sure they do.
Roxana Mînzatu is EU Executive Vice-President for social rights and skills, quality jobs and preparedness and Mattias Tesfaye is Danish Minister of Children and Education and President of the Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council (EYCS)