On 18 April 2025, a group of young people from Romania participated in a consultation focused on understanding how living near a border shapes cooperation, community life, and youth engagement. The discussion revealed diverse perspectives influenced by political, cultural, and social contexts.
When asked whether living near a border is an opportunity or a disadvantage, most participants agreed that it depends on the context. Many saw it as an opportunity for cultural exposure and educational growth, highlighting that proximity to other countries opens access to new experiences and perspectives. Others, however, considered it a disadvantage in situations of political or military conflict, or where infrastructure and cooperation are underdeveloped. Some emphasized that borders can be both a bridge and a barrier, depending on the relationship between neighboring countries.
Regarding the areas where cooperation is most needed, young people mentioned collaboration with local authorities and city halls, joint activities among high schools, and stronger partnerships between NGOs, public institutions, and minority groups. They stressed that these efforts should strengthen communication between citizens and decision-makers, while also fostering inclusion across Tulcea’s diverse communities.
When asked about useful Interreg and EU projects, participants frequently mentioned Erasmus+ and DiscoverEU, recognizing their value for youth mobility and intercultural learning. Other examples included Start-Up Nation and cross-border infrastructure initiatives like the Friendship Bridge between Ruse (Bulgaria) and Giurgiu (Romania), seen as key for regional connectivity.
As for the main difficulties in cooperation, participants pointed out communication barriers, superiority complexes between cultures, and differences in political values. Some also noted the persistence of ethnic tensions or the lack of dialogue between groups, while others believed that young people simply need more opportunities to meet peers from other countries.
In imagining their “dream projects,” participants proposed a variety of ideas:
- experience exchanges and youth workshops, including city visits and volunteer exchanges;
- a project celebrating the diversity of the Danube Delta, combining environmental education and community activities;
- a city-presentation initiative, where young people would promote Tulcea in other cities and later host their peers locally;
- clean-up projects in the Danube Delta to strengthen regional connections; and
- national exchange programs between youth centers and County Youth Foundations, inspired by Erasmus+.
The consultation highlighted that, despite challenges, young people remain eager to connect, collaborate, and celebrate their shared diversity. As one participant summarized, living near a border means having both challenges and chances—but it’s up to cooperation to decide which prevails.