On 11 May 2025, young people from Ukraine took part in a consultation focused on the opportunities and challenges of border life, identifying key areas for cooperation and proposing creative ideas for community development. The discussion reflected a hopeful vision of cross-border collaboration grounded in empathy, sustainability, and social inclusion.
Most participants agreed that living near a border is a great opportunity. It allows residents to access services and facilities from both sides, such as hospitals, schools, and public transport, while also encouraging people from different regions to meet, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. This kind of interaction helps communities grow stronger, improve their economies, and find collective solutions to common problems. For many, border regions represent dynamic spaces for cooperation in business, education, tourism, and environmental protection.
When identifying the areas where cooperation is most urgently needed, participants emphasized:
- Psychological support, especially for individuals affected by conflict or displacement, who need accessible mental health services and trauma-informed care;
- Youth opportunities, including mentorship, vocational training, and international exchange programs to build resilience and future prospects;
- Community programs, such as cultural events, social enterprises, and inclusive recreational activities, which promote social cohesion and civic engagement; and
- Environmental sustainability, addressing issues like waste management, renewable energy, and nature conservation to ensure public health and ecological balance.
Although participants had not previously encountered Interreg projects, they shared several innovative ideas for potential initiatives. One notable suggestion was to organize master classes and practical workshops in Ukrainian cities where people could create handmade items—such as drawings, clothing, or origami. These activities would not only help people develop useful skills, but also serve as a therapeutic outlet for those facing stress, anxiety, or uncertainty, especially in the context of ongoing social and emotional challenges.
The session concluded with a shared understanding that cooperation begins with human connection—through creativity, education, and compassion—and that border regions have the potential to become models of resilience and collaboration for the future of Ukraine.