Study Visit to Brussels
Successfully Completed 23-25 September 2024, Brussels

From September 23 to September 25, 2023, a significant milestone was achieved in the Trade Unions – New Impetus for Youth Participation project, as a study visit took place in Brussels. Organized by the UPOZ Trade Union, the project coordinator, this visit brought together representatives from partner organizations: Youth Development Center and Nezavisnost Trade Union from Serbia, Hizmet-ISH Trade Union from Turkey, Mladi Plus Trade Union from Slovenia, and USB from Greece. These delegates had the unique opportunity to present the outcomes of their research to the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport, and Culture at the European Commission, led by Karen Vanderweghe. The discussions also focused on planning the future operations of the Trade Union Academy, a new educational initiative aimed at young trade union members. This meeting highlighted the importance of youth sections and emphasized their increasing involvement in the work of trade unions.

A significant meeting also took place between UPOZ Trade Union President and project coordinator Trpe Deanoski, and Elisa Marzano, the European Commission officer overseeing the TUNI2023 project. The meeting reviewed the project's progress and explored the preparation for a new application. President Deanoski shared news about the upcoming final conference of the project, scheduled for November 28, 2024, in Skopje, and formally invited Marzano to participate, offering the opportunity to share the European Commission’s experience in one of the sessions.

The working part of the study visit concluded with a visit to the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU), which represents 8 million public sector workers across Europe. Consortium representatives learned about EPSU’s operations and exchanged best practices. EPSU's commitment to gender equality was particularly highlighted, showcasing their direct actions and negotiations with employers to promote women's rights, which is reflected in their membership, where women are highly represented.

The Trade Unions – New Impetus for Youth Participation project, implemented by UPOZ Trade Union and eight European partners, focuses on increasing the engagement of young people in trade unions through education, training, and information. So far, the project has produced research that explores the reasons for youth inactivity in unions, developed a program for the first Trade Union Academy, and facilitated a study visit to Mladi Plus Trade Union in Slovenia, where valuable positive examples were shared. Additionally, an online campaign is underway to reach and engage as many young people as possible.