The YOUTHMED project, funded by the European Union under the Interreg NEXT MED Programme, officially launched its activities through a two-day kick-off meeting held on 1–2 October 2025 in Seville, Spain.

The event gathered partners from Lebanon, Spain, Greece, and Egypt to coordinate the project’s implementation roadmap, focusing on youth inclusion, civic innovation, digital engagement, and cross-border cooperation across the Mediterranean.

Led by the Planning and Development Agency (PDA) – Lebanon, the consortium brings together:

• Foundation of the Chamber of Commerce of Seville (FCCSEV) – Spain

• Action Synergy – Greece

• Best World Foundation (BWNGO) – Egypt

• National League for Culture and Development (NLCD) – Lebanon

The meeting was held in the presence of representatives from the Joint Secretariat, the Branch Office Coordinator, and the National Contact Point, who provided guidance on project implementation, communication, and financial management in line with Interreg NEXT MED rules and procedures.

A group of youth organizations from Seville also participated in the event, laying the foundation for their integration into the Mediterranean Youth Network developed under YOUTHMED. This network will engage 15 youth organizations from across the Mediterranean throughout the project’s implementation and ensure their active contribution to joint cross-border initiatives.

During the meeting, the partners discussed management procedures, financial and communication guidelines, and the launch of the project’s digital and capacity-building activities.

YOUTHMED aims to empower 510 young people and strengthen 25 youth organizations through training, mentoring, and cooperation platforms — most notably the innovative SmartMaria, an AI-powered platform designed to facilitate collaboration and digital inclusion.

The kick-off marks the start of a 30-month journey to foster inclusive, resilient, and connected youth communities across the Mediterranean.

🔗 Learn more about the project: www.interregnextmed.eu/projects/youthmed