Meetingpoint Memory Messiaen e.V. regrets to announce that the intercultural youth project YOUNION, planned for 2025, cannot take place. Despite intensive efforts, the necessary funding could not be secured.
YOUNION – A Tradition of Intercultural Remembrance Culture
For nearly two decades, YOUNION – formerly known as Worcation – has brought together young people from different countries to engage with historical and contemporary questions surrounding democracy, human rights, and social cohesion. At its core is the exploration of the history of the former prisoner-of-war camp Stalag VIII A in Görlitz, now a memorial site in Zgorzelec. Through creative and interactive workshops, participants are given the opportunity to engage with remembrance culture and develop their own projects.
Mateusz Kowalinski, project coordinator of the youth exchange, emphasizes:
“The cancellation is unfortunate, but we see it as an opportunity to further develop the project. Preparations for YOUNION 2026 are already underway, and we are confident that we will be able to host the youth exchange for the 19th time in the quality everyone has come to expect. The tradition will live on – with new ideas and an even stronger focus on international collaboration.”
Realignment and Future Plans
In 2025, Meetingpoint Memory Messiaen e.V. is shifting its educational focus toward adult education and new projects in the field of remembrance culture. Various new formats are being explored to further develop the association’s educational approach and to reach a broader audience. Established initiatives, such as the Messiaen Days 2025, reflect this new direction with their revised, two-part format.
YOUNION remains an essential part of the organization’s long-term plans. The association is fully committed to relaunching the project in 2026 and continuing to contribute to historical-political education and intercultural dialogue for young Europeans.
We thank all previous supporters and partners for their dedication and look forward to future projects.
