“The youth cannot truly create a better future without a proper education and nurturing by the older generations.”
With these powerful words, Eryk Leszczyński—student from IV LO im. A.M. Wawelska in Poland—delivers a compelling message through his essay for the EUdemos project, a European initiative promoting civic education and democratic engagement.
Youth: The Lifeblood of Europe’s Future
Eryk opens his essay by reminding us that youth has always coexisted with life itself. He argues that young people are Europe’s greatest treasure—a force of optimism, passion, and responsibility. But like any treasure, it must be cultivated, protected, and empowered through education and intergenerational dialogue.
From Division to Unity: A New Responsibility
Drawing on Franz Kafka’s Prometheus, Eryk reflects on how historical conflicts—such as Franco-German tensions—continue to echo in Europe’s present. His call to action is clear:
“We must bury the hatchets littering our continent.”
For Eryk, young Europeans must tear down not only physical borders but also mental and emotional ones. He sees youth as the generation capable of carrying forward the torch of peace and unity envisioned by the founders of the European Union.
Inclusivity as a Civic Duty
One of the essay’s key themes is inclusivity. Eryk stresses that young people are naturally more open to diversity—ethnic, religious, cultural—and that their acceptance and cooperation with minorities is essential to building a fair and dignified Europe for all.
Europe, he says, should be a safe haven from identity-based discrimination, especially as other parts of the world fall into divisive populism.
The Danger of Extremism and Populism
Eryk does not shy away from the dark clouds gathering over Europe. He warns of extremist ideologies and demagogues who exploit hatred and misinformation—particularly online—to manipulate young people seeking identity and belonging.
He recognizes how social media algorithms, echo chambers, and targeted propaganda threaten the foundations of democratic dialogue. But he also believes education and critical thinking can reverse this trend.
Intergenerational Dialogue: The Pillar of Europe’s Resilience
In a striking metaphor, Eryk compares Europe to a bicycle:
“The old cannot exist without the youth, and the youth cannot exist without the old.”
He believes the European project is not just between governments—but between generations. Cooperation, mentorship, and shared experience are essential to preserve freedom and democracy.
Udemos-contest-essay-Eryk-Leszczynski-1 su Why Europe’s Future Depends on Youth
