“Europe Goes Local” (EGL), a European networking and learning platform, continues to provide crucial support for the “Wiesbaden International” office, which is embedded in municipal youth work. The office’s goal is to enable all young people in Wiesbaden to gain international learning experiences through European and international exchanges.
Within the framework of “Europe Goes Local,” the Wiesbaden network, together with its partner organizations in youth services, participated in the reflection on the European Charter on Local Youth Work. Engaging with professional standards for youth work at the European level highlighted the importance of a shared understanding of high-quality youth work. At the same time, it became clear that the framework and conditions in individual countries vary considerably.
For the professionals in Wiesbaden, raising awareness of these differing conditions in the partner countries was particularly valuable. A deeper understanding of the respective prerequisites, challenges, and working methods facilitates the development of shared content for international youth exchanges and collaborations. The expert discussions helped to reflect on existing approaches, gain new perspectives, and contribute these effectively to collaborations with European partner organizations.
The ongoing dialogue generated new impetus for local youth work. At the same time, it strengthened awareness of shared European values and deepened understanding of the European ideal. Overall, participation in “Europe Goes Local” has significantly underscored the importance of international cooperation in youth work and provided valuable suggestions for the further development of municipal youth services in Wiesbaden.
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The author of the article is Conny Meyne, Youth Work Coordinator in the Wiesbaden International, a municipal body for international youth work in charge of organisation, partnerships, and youth work program content design. Get in contact and learn more at Wiesbaden International.