Youth Democracy Festival in Denmark - Young People for Democracy Across Borders

On 10–11 September 2026, we participated in the Youth Democracy Festival in Odsherred, which brought together young people engaged in discussions about democracy, civil rights and freedom of expression.

Together with young people from Denmark and Sweden, we co-created workshops dedicated to freedom of expression, which were part of the YDF – Youth Democracy Festival events held on 11 September. It was an opportunity not only to exchange views, but above all to work together, listen to different perspectives and seek answers to questions that matter to the younger generation.

Democracy in Action

Participation in the festival showed that democracy is not only about voting and taking part in elections. It is also about the opportunity to express one’s views, engage in dialogue, cooperate, take responsibility and have a real influence on issues that affect us and our communities.

Thanks to the D-Effekt project and the Youth Democracy Festival method, young people can not only participate in events, but above all co-create them from the very beginning – choosing topics that matter to them, preparing workshops, engaging others and speaking out on issues concerning their local communities, Europe and the future of democracy.

Cooperation Across Borders

The meeting in Odsherred was also an important experience of international youth cooperation. The joint preparation of workshops by young people from Poland, Denmark and Sweden showed that, despite linguistic and cultural differences, we can work together to create a space for dialogue and action.

D-Effekt connects young people across borders and provides them with tools for active participation in civic life. The festival in Odsherred was another example of how, when young people are given space, trust and the opportunity to take action, democracy becomes something we not only learn about, but something we experience and co-create.

The D-Effekt Project

D-Effekt supports the development of young people’s civic engagement, their participation in democratic life and international cooperation. Through Youth Democracy Festivals, young people from different countries can jointly create engaging events and discuss issues that genuinely matter to them – both locally and internationally.