TOPICS

Europe&Youth 2023
International Student Contest

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University

Topics for University students, recent graduates and all under 27

1. THE ERA OF NON-THINGS
“It is not objects, but information that prepares us for the world we live in. We no longer inhabit the earth and the sky, but instead Google Earth and the Cloud”. Analyse the essay: Non-Things: Upheaval in the Lifeworld, by philosopher Byung-Chul Han. Give examples of young people who have chosen lifestyles and professional careers that go against trends.

2. THE PROMISE OF DIGITAL ACTIVISM
How has political and social activism changed from the era of marches and street protests, to that of social media activism? How much power does digital activism have in the fight for economic change, social justice and civil rights? What risks and contradictions are there? Present and analyse examples in both Italy and in the rest of Europe.

3. DESIGN YOUR PASSIVE HOUSE
The energy emergency has increased difficulties and delays in implementing the European Green Deal. Compare the political decisions and intervention plans in Italy with those of other European countries. Come up with your own ideas for a passive house design.

4. GO! 2025 BEYOND BORDERS
Nova Gorica and Gorizia will together be the European Capital of Culture in 2025, setting an example of how cross-border synergies can be an opportunity for social development and creative growth in a variety of sectors, with economic repercussions in the name of sustainability. Analyse projects in progress considering some of the potential obstacles that could arise.

5. GENDER EQUALITY
Redistributing housework and family care; educating children beyond stereotypes; abolishing the gender pay gap: some of the starting points referring to how education and politics could lead the way forward towards gender equality. Look at Goal 5 of Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, and express your views on this matter.

6. SMART AGRICULTURE
Look at the winner projects of Coldiretti Oscar Green last edition, assigned to deserving farms in the field of innovation, creativity and social issues. Make examples of 4.0 agrigulture projects in your area. Or tell your in progress project of agricultural startup.

7. RECOVERY PLAN AND GOVERNACE OF MIGRANT INTEGRATION
"Migratory policies: the PNRR that does not exist" is the title of a recent booklet published by Caritas Italy, defining a missed opportunity to implement appropriate immigration policies that abandone short term views and decisions driven by a securisation approach. Express your own views.

 

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High/Secondary School

Topics for High/Secondary School students

1. BEAUTIFUL WORLD, WHERE ARE YOU?
Starting from this novel by the Irish writer Sally Rooney and/or others proposed in IRSE Narratori d’Europa 2023 review, express your views regarding the complexities of becoming a young adult today.

2. ARE WE SPEAKING THE SAME ECOLOGICAL LANGUAGE?
“Environmentalism without social justice is gardening”. Comment on this statement that has appeared in recent youth demonstrations. Identify emergencies and also experiences of good practices in your area.

3. RETHINKING SCHOOL
Starting from a comparison with other EU countries, suggest reforms that you think could improve the world of education and make it a more inclusive and sustainable place, mindful of training needs and orientation towards the world of work.
 

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