Get ready to experience how young people in Interreg are contributing to the future of Europe and beyond. From June 24-27, the European Parliament will host an exhibition highlighting the transformative power of transnational cooperation. Explore the innovative projects, insights, and faces behind these initiatives, and see how Europe’s youth is actively driving the change.
“The beauty of Interreg lies in its ability to bring European integration to life: it is the most tangible exercise of cooperation, uniting public and private entities, academic institutions, and NGOs across regions to deliver real, impactful results.”
The “Through the Youth Lens: Stories of Transnational Cooperation” exhibition was born from this quote from one of the many voices involved in the consultations on the future of Interreg post-2027. A quote that says it all: the importance of bringing Interreg and its message of cooperation to the heart of European political debate. In a European Union that sometimes seems to be losing its sense of direction, it is no coincidence that this message of cooperation is coming from youth, particularly by Interreg Volunteers Youth (IVYs), who have been given the responsibility of reporting on the post-2027 consultation process. Fuelled by their experiences in direct exchanges with the beneficiaries of Interreg projects and having witnessed first-hand the most tangible impacts of EU policy, the IVYs have chosen to bring these “stories of transnational cooperation” to life. Stories that highlight the real, meaningful outcomes of Interreg initiatives across the 13 geographic areas where the programmes operate—creating a Union that is not just stronger, but closer and more united.
Why does your community need transnational cooperation?
Transnational cooperation is more than just a funding mechanism—it’s a mindset. It’s working together across territories to find shared answers to common challenges. In a world characterised by growing complexity, from climate change and digitalisation to youth unemployment and social inequalities, no region can prosper in isolation. Transnational projects build relationships among local authorities, researchers, entrepreneurs, civil society, and young people to co-create sustainable, inclusive, and innovative solutions. They build solidarity, strengthening ties between regions and ensuring that no one is left behind. They are about delivering change, by supporting the green and digital transitions that will shape the next generation of European development. But transnational cooperation is also about achieving synergies, by bringing together expertise and experience from across the continent, these programmes create space for experimentation, exchange, and learning. Aligning efforts across sectors and borders, Interreg projects increase efficiency and their impact, reaching more people and delivering better results.
Regions and cities—those closest to citizens’ daily realities—play a central role in every project. This bottom-up approach ensures that solutions are not only visionary but also rooted in communities’ everyday realities. Over the years, this governance model has strengthened cohesion, reinforced democratic values, and built trust across borders.
Stories of transnational cooperation in the spotlight
The exhibition itself is a visual journey through the impact of transnational cooperation. With 13 thematic posters, it will highlight some of the most impactful initiatives from across Europe and
beyond. But it is most importantly a chance to engage. The stories shared here are not just narratives of success; they are calls to action. They challenge us all to think about how we can contribute to building a resilient Europe and how we, too, can be part of these global solutions. For young people, in particular, this exhibition is an invitation to join the conversation, share their ideas, and be part of a wider community working towards positive change.
For those unable to attend in person, the exhibition will be alive on social media, offering an interactive space to explore the projects and engage with the ideas on display.
Key info:
Exhibition Name: “Through the Youth Lens: Stories of Transnational Cooperation”
Dates: June 24-27
Location: European Parliament, ALTIERO SPINELLI Building, Floor 5, SPINELLI Balcony Area – 5G