YW-MED — Youth Workers Network across the Mediterranean Sea Co-funded by the European Union
Erasmus+ · Cooperation Partnership in Youth
Youth work. Across the MED.

Youth Workers Network across the Mediterranean Sea — strengthening cooperation, inclusion and quality youth work across the Mediterranean.

#Project ID
2024-1-IT03-KA220-YOU-000243233
→Project Start
01 September 2024
✓Project End
31 August 2026
EUFunding Programme
Erasmus+ · European Union

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

Project Summary
Why.
How.
What.

The following content reproduces the English Project Summary submitted in the Erasmus+ application.

01 · Objectives ↗
What do you want to achieve by implementing the project?

YW-MED aims to improve the quality of youth work throughout the Mediterranean, to increase the inclusion of young LGBTQIA+ during Erasmus+ youth exchanges in contexts where the inclusion and defence of LGBTQIA+ rights is still problematic. To do so, it will help a group of 24 youth workers to develop specific working tools and create an international network that encompasses the entire Mediterranean region.

01
02 · Implementation →
What activities are you going to implement?

Two mobility activities will be carried out during which the 24 youth workers will work following the participatory design method. They will conduct research, both on the desktop and in the field, in order to highlight the situation of youth associations in the partner countries regarding the inclusion of young LGBTQIA+. Finally, the Network Youth Workers in the Mediterranean will be launched, a virtual space of connections, ideas and international cooperation.

02
03 · Results ✓
What project results and other outcomes do you expect your project to have?

This final dimension brings together the six results listed in the submitted application. Explore the complete set below.

03
Submitted application · Expected outputs Project Results
06 expected results
01LGBT+ rights and good practices report in partner countries and in the Mediterranean
02survey conducted among Mediterranean youth associations
03Guidelines to better prepare inclusive youth exchanges for LGBT youth
04Mediterranean YW Network
05Awareness-raising campaign
06Monitoring and impact assessment
YW-MED — Partnership
The Consortium

One sea.
Seven voices.

A Mediterranean partnership bringing together organisations from Italy, Greece, Spain, Malta, Albania, Jordan and Türkiye.

🇮🇹
ITALY
Project Coordinator

GAYCS LGBT ASSOCIAZIONE DI PROMOZIONE SOCIALE

Non-governmental organisation / association · Promotion and defence of LGBTQIA+ rights

COORDINATOR ↗
🇬🇷 PARTNER 02

NEANIKOI ORIZONTES M.K.O.

Youth Horizons · Non-profit, non-governmental organisation.

Greece · Megara
🇪🇸 PARTNER 03

ASOCIACIÓN EURO MIRADA

Non-profit association dedicated to human rights, social inclusion and youth participation.

Spain · Seville
🇲🇹 PARTNER 04

International E-Learning Institute Ltd

Research organisation active in vocational training, education and ICT.

Malta · Valletta
🇦🇱 PARTNER 05

Open Mind Spectrum Albania – OMSA

Non-governmental and non-profit organisation working for human rights and inclusion.

Albania · Tirana
🇯🇴 PARTNER 06

AL-EMAD ALKABEER FOR TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT CO.

Youth-focused organisation working in non-formal and informal education.

Jordan · Amman
🇹🇷 PARTNER 07

International Youth, Sport, Environment and Development Association

Youth organisation working across inclusion, sport, environment and development.

Türkiye · Muğla
A partnership across the Mediterranean.
Different experiences, territories and expertise connected by a shared commitment to youth work and inclusion.
7 organisations · 7 countries
01
Work Package 1 Project Management
Project News · Amman
05 February 2025 · Amman, Jordan
Kick-Off Meeting of the Youth Workers Network Across the Mediterranean Sea

On February 5, 2025, Amman, Jordan, enthusiastically hosted the Kick-Off Meeting of the Youth Workers Network Across the Mediterranean Sea project. This pivotal event marked the official closure of the preparation phase and the beginning of the much-anticipated implementation stage.

YW-MED Kick-Off Meeting in Amman
YW-MED team in Amman
YW-MED partners during the Kick-Off Meeting
YW-MED Kick-Off Meeting activities
Date05 February 2025
LocationAmman · Jordan
Organised byGAYCS & SYL
Project PhaseFrom preparation to implementation

The organization of the Kick-Off Meeting was entrusted to GAYCS and SYL, being the last one a key partner based in Jordan, a non-EU country in the Middle East known for being an example of LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

The Kick-Off Meeting was not just an organizational appointment but an opportunity to build connections and give a concrete face to the collaboration. From the very beginning, the energy and enthusiasm of the participants transformed the meeting into a true ideas lab, where discussions sparked engaging dialogues and team-building activities strengthened the team spirit.

The trust and synergy built over these days will be the key to successfully navigating the upcoming phases of the project.

During the event, every operational detail was carefully addressed to ensure a smooth and well-structured process:

What we did · WP1 Kick-Off From planning to action.
01The detailed agenda for the implementation phase was approved, clearly outlining the next steps.
02Monitoring files were scheduled, essential tools for ensuring transparency and efficiency.
03The official project logo and visual identity were finalized, giving a recognizable face to the initiative.
04Partner logos and official tags were shared, reinforcing communication and a sense of belonging within the network.
05The project’s official website was launched, becoming the central hub for objectives, expected results, the project team, and upcoming activities.

The Kick-Off Meeting in Amman laid the foundation for solid and effective cooperation. Thanks to the perfect synergy among partners and precise planning, the Youth Workers Network Across the Mediterranean Sea project has officially begun with extraordinary momentum.

A clear vision.
A shared Mediterranean journey. Now, with all tools in place and a clear vision ahead, the Mediterranean youth worker network is ready to take on the next phases with determination and collaborative spirit!
YW-MED — Second International Workshop in Rome
YW-MED · International Workshop
Rome · 21–22 November 2025

Second International
Workshop in Rome.

Two days of exchange and co-design

A key stage in developing the Guidelines for inclusive youth exchanges and strengthening the Mediterranean network of youth workers.

When21–22 November 2025
WhereRome, Italy
FocusInclusive Youth Exchange Guidelines

The second workshop of the Youth Workers network across the Mediterranean Sea (YW-MED) project took place in Rome on 21 and 22 November 2025, bringing together youth workers from all partner countries for two intense days of collaboration, exchange, and co-design. The meeting represented a key stage in the project, dedicated to developing the Guidelines for inclusive youth exchanges and strengthening a Mediterranean network of youth workers committed to promoting and protecting LGBTQIA+ rights.

YW-MED second workshop in Rome
Youth workers during the Rome workshop
YW-MED participants in Rome
21
November
GAYCS Office

Collaborative work at the GAYCS operational office.

Participants continued the work initiated during the first workshop, focusing on evidence collected through national research, good practices identified across the Mediterranean, and the needs expressed by youth associations. Through participatory design methods, the groups worked on defining the core content of the Guidelines, focusing particularly on:

  • operational tools to make youth exchanges more inclusive;
  • strategies to prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity;
  • methods to foster wellbeing, participation, and safety for LGBTQIA+ young people.
22
November
Coming Out

A symbolic landmark for LGBTQIA+ rights.

The second day took place at Coming Out, a historic LGBT+ bar in central Rome and a longstanding landmark for the LGBTQIA+ community. Partners presented and discussed the first prototypes of the Guidelines through dynamic sessions aimed at:

  • validating the previous day’s outputs;
  • collecting cross-feedback;
  • reinforcing the intercultural and Mediterranean dimension of the final document.

The day concluded with an informal networking moment that further strengthened the sense of international community among participants.

YW-MED collaborative work in Rome
YW-MED workshop participant
YW-MED second international workshop group
A significant step forward

Toward a stronger and more inclusive Mediterranean network.

The Rome workshop marked a crucial milestone for YW-MED: it consolidated the progress made so far, enhanced cooperation among partners, and moved the project forward towards the creation of practical tools to support youth workers throughout the Mediterranean region. The Guidelines developed through this collaborative effort will soon be published and shared with youth organisations, associations, and stakeholders committed to fostering inclusive and rights-based youth exchanges.

YW-MED — Help Us Improve
YW-MED — Closing Meeting in Athens
YW-MED · Closing Meeting
Athens · 8 February 2026

Closing Meeting
in Athens.

A key transition point for YW-MED

Cooperation, dialogue and active participation at the Europe Space of Athens.

Date8 February 2026
VenueEurope Space of Athens
FocusFinal Phase & Sustainability

The Project Closing Meeting took place on 8 February 2026 in Athens, at the Europe Space of Athens, a symbolic venue strongly representative of European values such as cooperation, dialogue, and active participation. The decision to hold the Closing Meeting ahead of the formal conclusion of all activities allowed partners to approach the final implementation phase with greater awareness, strengthening coordination and reinforcing a shared vision.

YW-MED Closing Meeting in Athens
YW-MED partners at Europe Space Athens
YW-MED Athens meeting
Morning · Learning

Exploring Europe Space.

The morning was dedicated to a guided visit of the permanent exhibition, which had been open to the public for only a few months, offering participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding of European themes and of the role of institutions in promoting inclusion, rights, and active citizenship.

Afternoon · Working Session

Partners and local activists around the table.

In the afternoon, the core staff meeting took place in the conference room of the Europe Space. The session involved project partners as well as activists from the local community, bringing grassroots perspectives and direct experiences into the discussion. Partners reviewed preliminary results, challenges and good practices and planned the activities to be completed during the project's final months.

YW-MED Closing Meeting participants in Athens
Europe Space Athens during YW-MED meeting
Special Guest

Gürol Başdar

The Closing Meeting was further enriched by the participation of Gürol Başdar, whose contribution fostered an in-depth reflection on Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, the importance of youth work in complex contexts, and the need to strengthen professional networks capable of generating real and lasting change.

Not an ending, but a transition

A clear roadmap for YW-MED's final phase.

The Athens Closing Meeting was not merely a symbolic moment of closure, but above all a key transition point: an opportunity to consolidate achieved results, strengthen partnership relationships, plan the finalisation and dissemination of project outputs, and renew the shared commitment towards sustainability and long-term impact.

Download Meeting Agenda ↓
YW-MED — International Forum of Youth Workers in the Mediterranean
YW-MED · International Forum
27 April 2026 · Online

International Forum of
Youth Workers in the Mediterranean.

Launching a new era of cooperation

More than 200 youth workers, practitioners and stakeholders came together to officially launch the Mediterranean Youth Workers Network.

Date 27 April 2026
Community 200+ Participants
Reach 7 Mediterranean Countries
Milestone Network Officially Launched
International Forum of Youth Workers in the Mediterranean event poster
Official Event Poster

International Forum of Youth Workers in the Mediterranean

27 April 2026 · 11:00 CET · Online
The Forum brought together the Mediterranean youth work community and marked the official launch of the Mediterranean Youth Workers Network.

27 April 2026

A milestone for YW-MED.

The International Forum of Youth Workers in the Mediterranean brought together more than 200 youth workers, practitioners and stakeholders from 7 Mediterranean countries for a key moment of exchange, cooperation and networking.

The Forum

Connections that continue beyond the event.

International experts and practitioners engaged in meaningful discussions, shared best practices, tools and innovative methodologies, and explored new partnerships. A common strategic vision for Euro-Mediterranean cooperation was outlined, strengthening the role of youth workers in promoting inclusion, participation and opportunities for young people.

Official Launch

The Mediterranean Youth Workers Network is now live.

The Forum marked the official launch of a platform designed to connect professionals, strengthen cooperation and enhance the role of youth workers across the Mediterranean. What started at the Forum is the beginning of a structured, long-term journey focused on cooperation, European project development and real impact at local and international levels.

Join the Network ↗
YW-MED — Dissemination Events in Rome
YW-MED · Dissemination Events
Rome · May 2026

YW-MED meets
institutions & communities.

Two dissemination events in Rome

Sharing YW-MED results, tools and perspectives with youth workers, institutions, civil society, activists and local stakeholders.

YW-MED dissemination event at Rome Municipality V
10 May 2026 · Rome

YW-MED at Rome Municipality V.

Council Hall · Rome Municipality V

On 10 May 2026, GAYCS organised a dissemination event at the Council Hall of Rome Municipality V, bringing together youth workers, representatives of local institutions, associations, activists, citizens and stakeholders interested in youth participation, inclusion and LGBTQIA+ rights across the Mediterranean.

The event offered an opportunity to present the objectives, activities and results achieved within YW-MED and to promote dialogue between institutions, youth organisations and civil society.

International research by 24 youth workers
Mediterranean youth organisations survey
Guidelines for inclusive youth activities
Mediterranean Youth Workers Network
Two days · One shared vision
YW-MED dissemination event at the Regional Council of Lazio
12 May 2026 · 11:00–16:00

YW-MED at the Regional Council of Lazio.

Via della Pisana · Rome

On 12 May 2026, YW-MED was presented at the headquarters of the Regional Council of Lazio. The event brought together youth workers, institutional representatives, civil society organisations, activists, stakeholders and members of the local and international community.

Participants explored the project's achievements and future perspectives, with particular attention to safe and inclusive spaces, the role of youth workers in combating discrimination, and the sustainability of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation beyond the project's duration.

Project results & practical outputs
LGBTQIA+ inclusion & human rights
International partnership & cooperation
Sustainability & future impact
YW-MED · Project Library
Project Results & Resources.

Explore and download the reports, evidence and resources developed throughout YW-MED. All materials are available in open access.

01Research
Research Report

Research on the situation of LGBTQIA+ young people, inclusion and good practices in the YW-MED partner countries.

Download PDF ↓
02Survey
Preliminary Survey Report

Preliminary findings from the YW-MED survey conducted among youth organisations across the Mediterranean Sea.

Download PDF ↓
03Survey
Mediterranean Survey Report

The complete survey resource bringing together evidence collected from youth organisations across the Mediterranean.

Download PDF ↓
04Network
Mediterranean Youth Workers Network

The resource documenting the community created to connect youth workers and strengthen cooperation across the Mediterranean.

Download PDF ↓
05Campaign
Awareness-Raising Campaign

Implementation, outreach and evidence from the YW-MED campaign promoting inclusion and LGBTQIA+ rights in youth work.

Download PDF ↓
06Impact
Monitoring & Impact Report

Monitoring and impact assessment of project activities, achievements, indicators, outcomes and performance.

Download PDF ↓
07Long-Term Legacy
Sustainability & Long-Term Impact Strategy

Strategy to sustain project results, strengthen the Network and maximise YW-MED impact beyond the funded period.

Download PDF ↓
08Manifesto
YW-MED Manifesto

Shared principles for LGBTQIA+ inclusive youth exchanges, centred on environment, group dynamics and inclusive language.

Download PDF ↓
09Project Management
Partnership Rules

Good partnership, shared responsibility and effective communication: common rules supporting transparent and effective cooperation.

Download PDF ↓
Knowledge designed to remain accessible.YW-MED turns research, cooperation and experience into resources that can continue supporting more inclusive youth work across the Mediterranean.
9 resources · Open access
YW-MED · Mediterranean Youth Workers Network
The project ends.
The Network continues.

Stay connected with the Mediterranean Youth Workers Network. Our Facebook Group will continue as a space for youth workers to connect, exchange ideas and experiences, share opportunities and strengthen cooperation across the Mediterranean.

Keep the connection alive Join the YW-MED community Join the Network ↗
YW-MED — Newsletter