From dialogue to ownership: reflections from the EU-Armenia Youth Forum

What happens when young people are not just the subject of discussion, but are actively shaping the conversation themselves? The first ever EU-Armenia Youth Forum created exactly that space.

The remarks delivered by high-level officials made it clear this was not going to be just another formal event. There was something different in the way they spoke about young people. It didn’t feel like a ceremonial acknowledgment – it felt intentional. They emphasised our responsibility to stay active, our power to initiate change, and the potential we hold within our communities. One idea stayed with me: young people belong in decision-making spaces. When our perspectives are truly valued and supported, we can contribute to real, sustainable solutions. 

An inspiring panel discussion followed, offering a more analytical and in-depth perspective. What made the discussion particularly powerful was how panelists voiced real concerns affecting young people today – from limited access to information, especially in rural areas, to the challenge of maintaining meaningful engagement while participating in multiple initiatives. These reflections highlighted both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with active youth participation. By the end, the panel turned into a call to action: young people encouraged each other to take ownership and be active in their communities. 

A session with the Erasmus+ Office in Armenia explained the programme’s structure, application process, and upcoming opportunities, while YEAs and ESN Armenia shared stories of adaptation, friendships, challenges, and transformation – bringing the programme to life and showing just how accessible and inspiring it can be. Erasmus+ deserves far more attention, especially in Armenia, where many young people are still unaware of its life-changing impact. Beyond academic opportunities, it offers personal growth, intercultural experiences, and professional development. 

The workshop was the moment when the idea that ‘young people belong in decision-making spaces’ turned into action. We were divided into groups and tasked with creating a concept for Europe Day 2026, discussing ideas, collaborating, and presenting our proposals to the audience. For me, meaningful participation came from being trusted with a task, challenged to think creatively, and taken seriously enough to share our ideas in front of others. It was both practice and proof that even small ideas can have real impact when young people are given the opportunity to contribute. 

And I think that’s the takeaway I’m leaving with: youth participation means being trusted to ask, question, create, and act. If we want Armenia’s youth to be more active, we need more spaces like this – places where we don’t just listen, but do. The real test comes afterwards: will we carry this energy back to our schools, towns, and communities, or let it stay trapped inside one room? The choice — and the change — is ours.

Useful links:

Erasmus+ (Official EU website)

Erasmus+ Armenia (National Erasmus+ Office / Armenia page)

Goethe-Institut Yerevan

Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Armenia

Schuman Declaration (May 9 / Europe Day background)