Young people in Moldova participate in the IDEAthon ”Be the Change”
Between 17–19 September 2025, more than 60 young people from different regions of the country are taking part in the IDEAthon “Be the Change! Youth Initiatives for Intercultural Dialogue,” an event dedicated to developing innovative ideas for promoting intercultural dialogue and social cohesion in communities.
The event is organized by the CONTACT Center in partnership with CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, and takes place within the project “Social Cohesion through Dialogue,” funded by the European Union. It brings together young people, experts in the field, representatives of national authorities, civil society organizations, and development partners. Over the course of three days, participants work in teams, benefit from training sessions and mentoring, and develop projects with real impact in their communities.
“Intercultural dialogue and the role of youth in this dialogue are very close to the heart of the European Union. In addition to helping us get to know each other, our traditions, and exchange ideas and opinions, intercultural dialogue strengthens social cohesion and builds trust, solidarity, and a sense of belonging,” said Marcia Kammitsi, Project Manager, EU Delegation to Moldova.
“With this event, we want to encourage young people to be agents of change in their communities and to understand the importance of intercultural dialogue and social cohesion in today’s society,” said Serghei Neicovcen, Executive Director of the CONTACT Center.
“This project came at the right time for a social group that is extremely important for our future. The Republic of Moldova is a unique country in Europe with a rich ethnic diversity. We have many values that unite us, and one of them is our country, the Republic of Moldova, which young people love and want to see prosper,” said Veaceslav Reabcinschii, Director of the Agency for Interethnic Relations.
“Young people are a key group in promoting intercultural dialogue and social cohesion, so we encourage and support active interaction among different youth groups, their participation in discussions on diversity, tolerance, and inclusion, as well as in implementing local initiatives,” said Elena Leșan, Project Manager at CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation.
The IDEAthon is designed to provide young people with a framework for practical learning, collaboration, and exchange of ideas, fostering the creation of a network of active youth engaged in dialogue, cooperation, and community involvement.
“I am participating because I want to turn what I see around me into a real solution for my community. This is our chance, as young people, to show that change starts with us,” said one of the IDEAthon participants.
At the conclusion of the IDEAthon, each team will present its initiative before a jury of experts and representatives of partner organizations. The proposed projects will focus on promoting intercultural dialogue and strengthening social cohesion in local communities. The most convincing and original ideas will not remain only on paper: 10 of them will be selected and will receive financial support of EUR 1,500 each to be turned into real actions with visible impact in communities.
The event is organized by the CONTACT Center in partnership with CMI – Martti Ahtisaari Peace Foundation, and takes place within the project “Social Cohesion through Dialogue,” funded by the European Union.
