On April 10, 2025, a group of 15–16-year-old high schoolers from Romania came together to reflect on one big question: What does it really mean to live near a border? The session used a fun and interactive method known as the Gallery Walk or Sticky Note Activity. Each participant had the chance to write down their thoughts individually on sticky notes and then share them with the group by placing them under different questions — a creative mix of brainstorming and crowdsourcing.
The first question sparked some very honest and varied reactions: “Is living next to a border an opportunity or a disadvantage?”
Some students immediately pointed to global tensions like war as a reason why borders might feel unsafe today. Several said that living near a border is more of a disadvantage right now, mentioning the war in Ukraine, possible threats like “Putin might bomb us,” and the fear of what might come from across the border.
Others shared more practical worries, like feeling disconnected from big cities or the national economy, while a few described their own negative experiences with people living across the border — saying some were “awful,” even if they believed kind people exist too.
But the group wasn’t all pessimistic. Many saw real opportunities in living near a border:
- Faster travel,
- Easy access to other countries,
- Learning from different communities, and
- Cultural diversity were some of the most mentioned positives.
Several teens spoke about the chance to form international friendships, help both countries grow, and enjoy “more diversity.” One participant summed it up best: “It can be both an opportunity and a disadvantage — it depends on the border.”
The second question asked: “In the place where you live, what are the main topics where cooperation is needed?”
Here, students spoke with clarity and creativity. They wanted more activities for young people, stronger ties between schools and local authorities, and better cooperation among volunteering groups. Many believed that if communities were more united and friendlier, it would be easier to create fun, meaningful projects.
One participant suggested that Red Cross collaborations could help save lives, while others emphasized building stronger connections between youth and adults who influence their futures. The focus was clearly on making their communities more active, more connected, and more supportive.
Next, participants were asked: “Can you name an Interreg project that you find useful where you live?”
Many students mentioned Erasmus+, with one saying it was “an amazing experience” they’d love to repeat. Others referred to EU-funded renovations of schools, hospitals, highways, and recreation areas. Some named projects like PNDR, POCU, and FEDR, showing a clear awareness of how European money is already making an impact in their regions.
One participant proudly shared their involvement in what seemed to be the Kamali (or Hamali) Project, which promotes the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the local level — a great example of youth leadership in action.
The fourth question hit a bit deeper: “In your daily life, what are the biggest difficulties for cross-border or international cooperation?”
Their answers were eye-opening.
Some pointed to language barriers, saying they thought English would solve everything — but not everyone speaks it well. Others mentioned a lack of interest in meeting new people, and even discrimination based on ethnicity or background.
One student shared how their sister struggles to fit in with people in another Romanian region. Others said that hate and lack of empathy stop people from collaborating, and leaders’ egos often get in the way of real progress.
Finally, students were asked to dream big:
“What would your ideal cooperation project look like?”
Here’s what they imagined:
- Projects filled with excursions, festivals, and cultural diversity lessons.
- Events with food, music, and activities from different cultures.
- People from other regions visiting places like Tulcea, to appreciate their beauty and people.
- Some dreamed of creating an institution that organizes trips around the world.
Others preferred more local Romanian connections, bringing together people from different regions and fields of knowledge.