On April 11, 2025, a group of 15–16-year-old Romanian high schoolers gathered to explore how living near a border impacts their lives and communities. The students reflected on both the possibilities and the struggles that come with cross-border life, while also sharing bold ideas for building a better future through cooperation.
The first question posed was: “Is living next to a border an opportunity or a disadvantage?”
Many students viewed border regions as places of potential. Some expressed that borders should connect, not divide, and pointed to the economic and cultural exchange opportunities in places like Constanța. Others believed that living near a border is a gift, helping people broaden their worldview by being exposed to different cultures and languages. A few also pointed out how tech and business partnerships can thrive in border regions.
Still, several participants felt that the situation depends heavily on the level of cooperation between countries — and in their view, that cooperation is often missing. There was a sense that while the potential exists, it’s not always realized. Some students felt that missed opportunities, bureaucratic obstacles, or a lack of real interaction often make border life more frustrating than exciting.
The discussion then moved to a key local concern:
“In the place where you live, what are the main topics where cooperation is needed?”
Students brought forward thoughtful ideas. They emphasized the need for better infrastructure, especially in terms of clean transport and environmental protection along the coast. Others called for more cooperation in tourism and solutions to youth migration, hoping for stronger economic and educational partnerships to keep young people engaged and hopeful.
Another point that came up was that students often don’t hear enough about European opportunities. Some felt that teachers avoid promoting international experiences, seeing them as distractions from schoolwork. Others pushed for more youth exchanges and initiatives that make EU cooperation feel accessible and relevant to their lives.
When asked: “Can you name an Interreg project that you find useful where you live?”, several well-known initiatives were mentioned.
Projects like Clean Border, which supports emergency and disaster cooperation in vulnerable areas, were praised for their real-life impact. Others pointed to Danube Water Integrated Management, saying its environmental strategies could apply to the Black Sea region as well. Cross-border projects focused on tourism trail development were also highlighted, with students noting how they boost shared heritage and regional pride.
Some students found value in projects like Fast Danube, and imagined how similar approaches could be applied in Constanța to improve logistics, trade, and transport.
The conversation then turned toward obstacles:
“In your daily life, what are the biggest difficulties for cross-border cooperation?”
Students spoke honestly about the barriers that keep them from participating in international projects. Many said their schools don’t offer real opportunities to connect with peers from neighboring countries — either because of a lack of travel documents, transport options, or simply bureaucratic red tape like approvals and permissions.
Others shared how language barriers, especially between Romanian and Bulgarian youth, make it hard to communicate. Some felt that cultural differences, discrimination, or a general lack of interest in collaborationfurther complicate things. And several pointed out how limited access to technology or being overwhelmed by school commitments make even online programs hard to join.
Last but not least, the students were asked to dream big:
“What would your ideal cooperation project look like?”
And the answers were inspiring.
Some imagined a Romania–Bulgaria student exchange with a focus on environmental science, where youth could work together in eco-labs and solve local problems. Others dreamed of youth centers along the Black Sea that could host artistic, educational, and sustainability-focused events.
There were ideas for student-led environmental campaigns, complete with coastal clean-ups, creative art projects, and storytelling initiatives. One group proposed a digital museum, where students could co-create virtual exhibitions about shared history and traditions.
And for the future-oriented? A few students imagined a coastal tech incubator for green innovation, where young people could launch startups, work with international mentors, and create real solutions for sustainable living.