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Celebrating a Milestone: 1000 IVY volunteers deployed

The Association of European Border Regions (AEBR) proudly celebrates a major milestone in the Interreg Volunteer Youth (IVY) initiative, which has now welcomed its 1000th volunteer. Since its inception in March 2017, IVY has become a cornerstone in promoting and supporting European Territorial Cooperation. This success underscores the collective effort of volunteers, host organizations and stakeholders who have made IVY a driving force for positive change across Europe and beyond.

IVY: A commitment to the Future of Territorial Cooperation

Promoted by the European Commission’s DG Regio and managed by AEBR since its inception, IVY provides young people with hands-on experience in European Territorial Cooperation. By engaging directly in Interreg programmes and projects, volunteers support meaningful activities that enhance cooperation across regions and help local communities fully benefit from territorial cooperation.

Over the past eight years, IVY has made a significant impact in promoting cooperation across borders: IVY volunteers have played a crucial role in implementing and communicating Interreg’s impact, ensuring that the voices, concerns and aspirations of younger generations are reflected in European Territorial Cooperation. More than 55 Interreg Programmes and over 350 Interreg Projects have welcomed IVY volunteers, benefiting from their enthusiasm, fresh perspectives, and innovative ideas.

Beyond their activities within Interreg programmes and projects, IVY volunteers have also engaged communities directly by organizing 50 Citizens’ Engagement Activities (CEAs), strengthening public understanding of the European Union’s Cohesion Policy. Through these initiatives, they have bridged the gap between local communities and EU policies, making European cooperation more tangible and accessible to everyone.

Moreover, IVY has empowered young people to shape the future of territorial cooperation, giving them a voice in the Interreg post-2027 consultation process and ensuring that Interreg remains a lasting and inclusive initiative.

As IVY celebrates the remarkable achievement of 1000 volunteers deployed, AEBR reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that the younger generation continues to play a key role in shaping the future of European Territorial Cooperation.

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