On 22 May 2025, young people from the Republic of Moldova took part in a consultation exploring the opportunities and challenges of living near a border, as well as the types of cooperation that can strengthen their communities.
Participants noted several opportunities:
- the ability to visit more countries in a shorter time,
- increased economic advantages due to cheaper and more accessible goods,
- and the potential for strategic investments in geostrategic areas.
However, they also pointed out important disadvantages, such as instability risks, potential attacks in case of war, and fewer opportunities due to the distance from the capital.
When asked where cooperation is most needed, the group identified the cultural, political, social, and economic fields as key areas. Among existing initiatives, they highlighted TAAS as the most valuable Interreg project, emphasizing that tourism plays a vital role in boosting the local economy, creating jobs, and promoting cultural exchange. They appreciated that TAAS provides sustainable solutions and focuses on long-term regional development.
The main difficulties young people observed in everyday cross-border and transnational cooperation included cultural differences, language barriers, prejudices, and wars or military conflicts, along with inefficient public transport.
Their “dream project,” titled “Filmmakers & Journalists – To Tell Raw, Human-Centered Stories,” envisions collaboration between filmmakers, journalists, and local communities to tell authentic, human stories. Through workshops in conflict or transition areas, locals—especially youth and women—would learn to film and share their own experiences ethically and responsibly. The final outcomes would include documentaries, photo essays, and podcasts, co-created with the communities and shared globally through film festivals, schools, and social media.
The session concluded with an inspiring thought from a 14 years old, Republic of Moldova:
“For the Republic of Moldova to grow and develop, it is essential to invest in cooperation projects that bring together people, ideas, and resources, turning challenges into real opportunities.”