ERASMUS+, Key Action 1: youth exchange
Venue: resort Golden Sands, Bulgaria
Dates: 14—21 August 2023
National team: 4 participants + 1 group leader
Please read the info-pack.
Hosting organisation: IYAC BULGARIA
Project report:
The Erasmus project in Bulgaria aimed to promote human rights awareness among participants from the Czech Republic, Romania, Croatia, Serbia, and Bulgaria. The project brought together diverse teams to foster intercultural understanding, forge strong bonds, and engage in meaningful discussions on human rights.
The Czech team embarked on an unforgettable journey of cultural exchange and learning. As strangers at the outset, we quickly broke down barriers through icebreaker activities designed to encourage open communication and friendships. Over the course of the project, we learned about each other’s backgrounds, values, and experiences, fostering a sense of unity among the Czech participants.
Throughout the project, we had the privilege of interacting with participants from Romania, Croatia, Serbia, and our host country, Bulgaria. These interactions facilitated a rich exchange of perspectives on human rights issues. The diverse range of experiences and opinions enriched our understanding of the subject matter, broadening our horizons and deepening our empathy for the challenges faced by individuals in different contexts.
Beyond the sessions, the project allowed us to build lasting friendships through various social activities. Shared meals, cultural nights, and group outings provided opportunities for informal conversations that reinforced our sense of friendship. As we explored the vibrant culture of Bulgaria and Golden sands in particular, we celebrated our differences and shared moments of laughter, creating unforgettable memories.
The heart of the project lay in our engaging discussions about human rights. Facilitated by expert speakers, we tackled a wide range of topics, from the basics of human rights to more complex issues such as gender equality, minority rights, and freedom of expression. These discussions were enlightening, prompting us to question our assumptions and consider new perspectives. The most interesting activity was when an expert advisor to the Bulgarian ministry of the Healthcare came as a guest speaker and discussed challenges within the healthcare system and emphasized the human right to health. The historical context of life expectancy and healthcare obligations were presented. The comparison between the solidarity model and innovation-based healthcare systems, as seen in the USA, added depth to the conversation. The discussion also covered the pros and cons of mandatory screening tests.
The Erasmus project in Bulgaria was an incredible journey that united us in a shared quest for human rights awareness. Through open discussions, cultural exchange, and non-formal activities, we not only deepened our understanding of human rights issues but also built friendships that transcended borders. As we return to our respective countries, we carry with us the valuable lessons learned and the bonds forged during this unforgettable experience. We are greatful for the opportunity, which EYCB organisation gave us.
Lukáš M.
