In August 2025, the town of Valča in Slovakia hosted the third European Rural Youth Summit (ERYS 2025 – Together for Today), an event that brought together young people, trainers, and policymakers from rural communities across Europe. Under the banner “Together for Today,” the summit focused on the well-being of rural youth and intercultural dialogue as drivers for more inclusive societies.
One of the highlights was giving young people the opportunity to share their experiences and take an active role in driving change: not only participating in workshops and debates but also directly contributing policy recommendations that reflect their realities. ERYS served as a platform where their voices were heard, their challenges—such as distance, isolation, or lack of opportunities—were made visible, and concrete solutions were explored. Emotional health, social connection, and mutual support were also emphasised as essential components of any strategy aimed at revitalising rural areas.
For those working with youth—whether as trainers, in local development, or community projects—ERYS 2025 offers practical inspiration: creating safe spaces for young people to express concerns, incorporating participatory methodologies where their voices truly matter, and building local support networks with a European perspective.
ERYS 2025 not only inspired Europe’s rural youth but also looked to the future: the next edition of the Summit promises to continue fostering connection, empowerment, and co-creation, inviting new rural communities to make their voices heard in the European dialogue.
