The survey Encouraging UK-German Youth Exchanges - Findings from the survey of young people, youth workers and youth organisations identifies several obstacles that make youth exchange more difficult: Lack of funding, sufficient support services and insufficient practical experience in international work. Youth workers need more support in finding partners, applying for funding and in the area of further training. Young people need more information, funding and access opportunities.
The survey also makes concrete recommendations on how these obstacles can be overcome. This includes creating a supportive infrastructure that encourages youth work in both countries to engage in international exchange. There should also be a greater focus on engaging marginalised groups of young people as part of UK-German cooperation in order to promote participation and inclusion in both countries. Finally, youth worker exchanges should be used to establish contacts and long-term connections and develop skills. The recommendations were developed together with German and UK organisations from the youth sector.
Youth exchanges between Germany and the UK can make an important contribution to understanding and intercultural learning. The survey provides valuable insights and suggestions for anyone interested in international youth work.
The survey was conducted by People Dialogue and Change on behalf of IJAB. The survey was carried out as part of UK-German co-operation under the umbrella of UK-German Connection.
The full survey can be read online or downloaded below. This and a German version can also be found in our order service. There you can also download the survey as a PDF or find the link to the online edition.
