Across many rural regions in Europe, young people face a difficult question:
should they stay in their communities or leave in search of opportunities elsewhere?
Many of these regions are considered “talent trap regions”, experiencing youth migration, declining working-age populations, and difficulties in retaining talent.
The SOS project – Should I Stay or Should I Go? brings together six organisations working with young people in rural areas to address these challenges. Through participatory and community-based approaches, the project empowers young people to analyse migration experiences in their communities and contribute to solutions that support the sustainable development of rural regions.
By combining participatory research methods and community storytelling, young people will develop new skills, share their perspectives, and co-create project results such as a geo-localised podcast and a Policy & Action Proposals Paper, giving visibility to the voices, needs, and ideas of rural youth.
The SOS project brings together organisations working with young people in rural and remote areas to strengthen youth participation and community engagement. Through participatory approaches and collaboration across Europe, the project supports young people in analysing migration experiences and identifying opportunities for the development of their regions.
The project focuses on empowering young people to actively participate in shaping their communities and influencing policies related to rural development. Through training activities, participatory workshops, and international cooperation, young people will develop leadership, research, and communication skills while working together to explore migration dynamics and local challenges.
Produce podcasts that share migration experiences, local stories, and the cultural identity of rural territories.
Strengthen young people’s leadership, community engagement, research, and storytelling skills through training, workshops, and mobility activities.
Engage local communities through listening workshops, public events, round tables, and dissemination actions across Europe.
Build stronger connections between youth
Develop a Policy & Action Proposals Paper that gives voice to rural youth and supports better decision-making for rural areas.
The project primarily engages young people living in rural communities, supporting them to develop leadership skills, share their experiences, and actively contribute to the future of their regions.
SOS strengthens cooperation between youth organisations working in rural areas, helping them collaborate, exchange knowledge, and create opportunities for youth participation and engagement.
Community members, including families, educators, and local actors, will participate in workshops, events, and storytelling activities that explore migration experiences and the future of rural territories.
Through policy discussions, round tables, and the Policy & Action Proposals Paper, the project connects young people with local, national, and European decision-makers to ensure that youth perspectives are heard.
