Youth exchange on climate change and human rights
What does charging your phone have to do with human rights? Young people from five countries explored how the climate crisis and human rights are connected, and took the story to Passignano’s 1 May celebration.
Why
Climate change is often discussed as a technical problem. We wanted young people to see its human side: who pays the price of the products we use every day, and what young people can do about it.
What happened
Each national group led a workshop for the others. The week also included debates, a world café and an intercultural night. The key moment was a role play on lithium and smartphones, following the chain from mining to the phone in our pocket. Reflection Groups met every day, and the Group Leaders met daily too. When the national groups tended to keep to themselves, a feedback session and more collective reflection in the middle of the week helped everyone look at how they were working together. There was a free day, and the exchange ended with a Youthpass session and a final evaluation.
On stage on 1 May
The groups took part in the town’s annual 1 May celebration, one of the best-attended events in Passignano. Each national group presented itself on stage with stories, music and dances, next to Kora’s information stand on Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. About 100 people attended.
Results
- The role play on lithium and smartphones was the most meaningful activity for 10 of 18 respondents.
- Several participants saw the link between climate change and human rights for the first time. Some left with new intentions: to fly less, choose slow fashion, spend less time on screens or get involved in activism.
- Young participants gained confidence in speaking English and in front of a group.
“This project made this connection really really clear for me.” (a participant)
“Something as basic as charging your phone can truly impact the environment.” (a participant)