ESC: Seeds of Solidarity - EUROPE DIRECT FYRBODAL

The Municipality of Åmål is a small municipality in the western part of Sweden. The picturesque town of Åmål is located on the shore of Sweden´s biggest lake, Lake Vänern. Its eventful history, rich cultural life, peace, security and authenticity combined makes it Sweden´s most hospitable town. The municipality does not only have a charming town centre but also a living countryside. Åmål offers a broad range of music, art, handicraft, literature, dance and other cultural expressions. The Municipality of Åmål have, for many years, had an international focus which is highly respected by the majority of our politicians. It's important for Åmål to engage young people and show them the possibilities that EU can offer when it comes to studying, volunteering or working abroad. We are also one of 14 Europe Direct offices in Sweden. The importance of working with youths and their international movement and how youths can get the possibility to travel abroad to get working experience and meet new cultures is highlighted in the municipal international strategy. International engagement is of importance to the Municipality of Åmål as it contributes to peace, understanding, and solidarity and prevents xenophobia. In order to consolidate peace and solidarity between people, combating racism and promoting democratic development in Europe, it is important that, in particular children and young people come in contact with other countries and cultures By having volunteers in Åmål the youngsters will get a chance to meet people from other cultures and learn from their experiences and maybe get influenced to travel by themselves one day.

The Europe Direct Fyrbodal office is one out of 14 offices in Sweden and over 500 in Europe, which communicates the EU to citizens through having an open office, arranging activities, school visits etc. The office is financed by the EU-Commission, the Region of Västra Götaland, Länsstyrelsen i Västra Götaland and by the Municipality of Åmål.

Drivhuset Åmåls Kommun is a part of the municipality which works with youths in the ages of 16-30 years old and currently without employment. These youths might also have contact with several authorities at the same time. These authorities could for example be Social services, Health care or the Swedish Employment Service. At Drivhuset the target group can, in relaxed forms, have scheduled meetings, get advice on work or studies or be part of social activities. Drivhuset maintain contact with young people who are in need of continued support after having finished school and offer a variety of efforts based on the individuals need. The aim of Drivhuset is to help youths coordinate the efforts around them and support them on their way to work or studies, and being self-sufficient.