Citizenship awareness development through EU youth volunteering programs' participation in Türkiye and Slovakia

Abstract

This study explores the transformative potential of EU Youth Programmes, specifically Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, in fostering citizenship awareness and personal development among young people in Türkiye and Slovakia. The research is grounded in Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory and T.H. Marshall's model of citizenship. It investigates how participation in these programmes, facilitated by non-governmental organisations (NGOs), contributes to civic consciousness, intercultural competence, and community engagement. The study employed a qualitative methodology involving semi-structured interviews with 20 participants (10 per country), thereby identifying key mechanisms by which NGOs mediate the learning process and support the development of active citizenship. The findings revealed that participation frequently results in enhanced self-awareness, a reinforced sense of belonging, and a propensity to contribute to society. Furthermore, the study emphasises structural and contextual challenges, including limited access, policy awareness, and cultural barriers, that influence the effectiveness of these programmes. The research offers practical insights for social work practitioners and youth policy stakeholders, advocating for more inclusive, centred on young people, approaches to civic education and engagement.