Baltic Sea Youth Dialogue 2024: Exploring Youth & Cultural Heritage in the Baltic Sea Region

Focusing on youth, the Hanseatic legacy and shared cultural heritage, the next edition of the Baltic Sea Youth Dialogue (BSYD) will take place in Gdańsk, Poland, from 11 to 16 November 2024. This all-expenses-paid event invites 20 young people, aged 18 to 28, from the Baltic Sea Region (BSR). Registration is now open and will close on 15 October 2024.

Young participants will have the unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of the historical and cultural ties that have shaped the Baltic Sea Region, while also setting up connections for the future. 

The Hanseatic League, often described as a “medieval forerunner to the EU”, not only influenced trade and politics but also left a lasting imprint on the architecture, culture, and lifestyle of the region. The BSYD 2024 will explore these elements, examining their continued relevance to young people today.

Through a combination of workshops, expert-led sessions, and peer discussions, participants will learn about different aspects of cultural heritage, including the role of organisations like the Hansa. They will also reflect on their own experiences and consider how they can actively contribute to preserving and promoting regional heritage. Networking opportunities with peers and experts will facilitate rich discussions on how cultural heritage can continue to unite the region.

A key feature of the BSYD 2024 will be the focus on outreach. Participants will be encouraged to engage with local youth, bringing their ideas and experiences to wider audiences and promoting youth participation in cultural heritage activities. This peer-to-peer dialogue is essential in ensuring that the region’s shared heritage continues to inspire and connect future generations.

The event is organised by the Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) in collaboration with the Union of Cities THE HANSA, and is financed by the German Federal Foreign Office through the German Embassy in Stockholm. 

The Baltic Sea Youth Dialogue events, now in their 11th edition, are an annual feature organised by the CBSS and regional partners, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. They have enabled cross-border dialogue among young people in the Baltic Sea Region, contributing to shaping the region’s future and strengthening international cooperation.

For more details on how to apply, visit https://cbss.org/event/baltic-sea-youth-dialogue-2024/

Event details

• Location: Gdańsk, Poland
• Dates: 11–16 November 2024
• Eligible participants: 18–28-year-olds residing in a Baltic Sea Region country
• Registration: Register now, until 15 October 2024
• Expenses: The organisers will cover travel, accomodation and most meals.