Building bridges: expanding the BoT Stakeholder Network

As part of its ongoing efforts to expand the Back on Track Stakeholder Network, the YES Forum recently organised a meeting that brought together diverse organisations from Germany, Bulgaria, Romania, and a youth-led European network of young people from rural areas. The goal: to introduce the Back on Track project and unite forces in supporting young NEETs (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) from rural areas. 

During the meeting, YES Forum's project officers outlined Back on Track's key objectives and expected impact, explaining the project’s unique approach. At its core, the initiative aims to empower NEET youth and activate them to engage with their local environments. The emphasis on rural areas is crucial, as these regions often lack the infrastructure and resources available to urban youth, making it harder for young people to access education, employment, and training opportunities.  

Representatives from LAG Jugendsozialarbeit Baden-Württemberg and Agapedia (DE), SolidarityWorks Foundation (BG), Nevo Parudimos (RO) and the Rural Youth Europe network shared their insights, drawing on a wealth of expertise in working with NEET youth, particularly in Eastern Europe, where the challenges can often be more acute due to social and economic factors. They represented the experience of grass-root civil organisations, public institutions and international networks working with young people.  

A central topic of discussion was the creation of the Stakeholder Network—a collective of organisations from across the Danube region with diverse expertise and approaches but a shared goal: improving the lives of rural NEET youth. The network will offer a platform for collaboration, allowing organisations to exchange good practices, support each other’s efforts, and align strategies for greater impact. 

The meeting also highlighted the specific challenges faced by rural NEETs, especially in Eastern Europe. Participants noted the difficulties of reaching these young people, who are often isolated and disconnected from existing support systems. Organisations reflected on the barriers they encounter and discussed how the network could address these issues through coordinated action and shared learning. 

The encounter reaffirmed the importance of a stakeholder network that taps into the strengths of its diverse members, leveraging their expertise and insights to bring about real, positive change. As Back on Track continues to grow, the participation of regional stakeholders will be key to its success. Together, these organisations will strive to ensure that young people in rural areas have the opportunities and support they need to thrive, building a more inclusive and socially resilient future for the Danube region.