Lviv – European Capital of Youth 2025: what it means for Ukraine
7 March 09:24
Lviv will become the European Youth Capital in 2025. This is the first time in the history of Ukraine that a Ukrainian city has received this status. This is reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with referenceto the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“This status is not only prestige and international recognition. It is a powerful tool of cultural diplomacy that will help to reveal the richness of Ukrainian identity, its deep European context and demonstrate that Ukraine is already making European history,” the Foreign Ministry said.
It is specified that Lviv will open the year of the European Capital of Youth from April 3 to 5. The Lviv City Council reported that the opening program consists of an official ceremony, a memorial evening, and a large-scale event for young people from all over the country.
What is the title of European Capital of Youth?
The European Youth Capital (EYC) is an annual title awarded by the European Youth Forum to one city that demonstrates active development of youth policy, innovative initiatives and involvement of young people in decision-making processes.
The title of European Youth Capital is awarded to a European city for a period of one year based on the results of the competition. Lviv won in the fourth attempt, having reached the final twice, and officially received this status in 2022.
What does it give to the country and the winning city
International recognition. The status confirms the active role of youth in society and enhances the image of Ukraine as a country that supports democratic European values.
Attracting investment and financing. The victory opens up opportunities to attract international grants and investments in youth initiatives, infrastructure and culture.
Strengthening cultural diplomacy. Lviv will become a platform for international meetings, exchange of experience and cooperation with other European countries.
Development of youth policy. New initiatives created under the status will help improve opportunities for young people, their self-realization and active participation in public life.
Tourist attractiveness. Lviv will receive an additional flow of tourists, participants in international events, conferences, and festivals.
This title brings significant benefits to the city, including international recognition, new partnerships, and the opportunity to strengthen the voice of young people in local government.
In 2025, Lviv, as the 17th holder of this title, will receive guests from different European countries.
How do cities get the status of European Youth Capital?
Every year, cities from different countries take part in a competition in which they present their programs on youth policy, innovative projects, and urban space development. The winner is selected based on these criteria and is entitled to implement an annual program of activities.
Lviv became the first Ukrainian city to receive this prestigious status, and this is an important step in strengthening Ukraine’s European integration. The youth of Lviv and the whole country will be able to implement new projects, strengthen international relations, and demonstrate the strength of Ukrainian society to the world.
Program of the opening ceremony
on April 3, an official ceremony will be held to bring together representatives of European and Ukrainian youth organizations, activists, and local government officials.
on April 4, the Garrison Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul will host a Remembrance Night dedicated to young people who died fighting for Ukraine. The families of the victims, their friends, Ukrainian artists and everyone else will be able to take part in the event, which will also be broadcast on Rynok Square.
on April 5, FESTRepublic will host the grand opening of the European Youth Capital. The program of the event includes motivational speeches, stand-up, raffles, networking and a concert. Admission is free with prior registration.
Other events in Lviv, besides the main program
During the three days of the opening, workshops, quests, discussions, competitions, and excursions will be held for young people at various locations in Lviv. The program covers various areas: culture, science, business, sports, and support for the army.
International organizations such as UNICEF, local business and media partners, NGOs, and active youth of the city have also joined to support the opening of the European Capital of Youth.
More information about the program can be found on the official website, and the organizers encourage you to follow the European Capital of Youth 2025 social media for the latest news.
In 2018, Lviv received the status of the Youth Capital of Ukraine, which gave impetus to the development of youth infrastructure: youth centers were opened in the city, the TORI! network was created, and national festivals and conferences, including Molodvizh and Dizarium, were held.
This experience became the basis for a further ambitious goal: Lviv applied for the title of European Youth Capital and won the competition in 2022.
This title opens up new opportunities for the city, including international recognition, expanding partnerships, and active participation of young people in the development of urban life.
