EU-CARES, short for European Collective Narratives for Reconciliation, Trauma Healing through Youth Engagement and Storytelling, was a European project focused on supporting young people and youth workers through creative approaches to trauma, reconciliation and social inclusion. Running from December 2022 to November 2024, it brought together partners from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Montenegro, Poland and Serbia, with support from the European Commission’s Erasmus+ programme.

The project developed practical learning resources, including a multilingual e-toolkit with an operational curriculum and a virtual handbook. Its activities included youth storytelling workshops, interviews and partner-country think tanks. Participants explored difficult histories and contemporary experiences through creative expression, with the aim of strengthening emotional, social and creative skills, increasing awareness of human rights, and fostering a shared European identity.

EU-CARES also published the “We Are All Stories” catalogue, featuring stories, podcasts, a photographic exhibition and an animated video created by young participants. These works address collective trauma, healing, reconciliation, refugee journeys, diversity and belonging, using storytelling to encourage understanding and contribute to more inclusive communities.