As another year comes to an end, we wish you all a great 2022 – celebrating what has been achieved and reflecting on the challenges overcome.
Around this time last year, many of us remained stunned by the extraordinary circumstances that gripped the world in 2020. We had been tested by an unprecedented set of challenges, and emerged equipped with powerful lessons learned. Change and relief were surely on the way, and it was just a matter of time before everything returned to normal. … or so we had hoped.
This year, the feeling is different. Rather than traversing a vast but temporary blow, we have gone through a complete transformation of what “normal” is – or will be, in any foreseeable future. 2021 tested us yet again, relentlessly, as individuals as well as a team. And in response, we carried out a great deal of work, walking hand in hand with others – with numerous youth communities, with educational institutions, with civil societies, with tireless trainers and partners, as well as with supporters like yourself. Together, we navigated uncertainty through a unique dual skill of flexibility and perseverance, which will only be honed from here onwards.
A year of continued trials, 2021 also presented us with new opportunities to contribute to building a world of democratic citizenship, human rights, and intercultural understanding. We strengthened democratic competences in multiple countries, promoted inclusive learning environments across Europe, provided teaching and learning resources both live and online, built partnerships and networks, and contributed to policy development and implementation.
As we turn the corner into 2022, we won’t pretend to be unfazed by the turbulence we are moving through – but we also look ahead to the new skills it will add to our growing arsenal. We will continue to do our best, restocking our patience and commitment reserves as the year unfolds. Meanwhile, please accept our heartfelt thanks for being such an essential part of our work and effort. The EWC team wishes you, your family and your community a safe, healthy, peaceful, and productive new year.
Ana Perona-Fjeldstad,
EWC Executive Director