Lviv European Youth Capital 2025: A story of resilience in times of war
As war continues in Ukraine, Lviv has emerged as a symbol of resilience and hope for young people. Soon to enter its year as European Youth Capital, the city is using this opportunity to showcase the strength and determination of its young residents. We recently travelled to Lviv, for a Study Visit for representatives of youth organisations organised by the Council of Europe and got a glimpse into Lviv’s vision of young people’s empowerment in times of crisis.
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not easy, but moving forward
When Lviv applied for the title in 2021, the vision was very different. Ukraine was at peace, and the city’s youth initiatives focused on cultural development, innovation, and simply having fun and celebrating being young. But Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022 has profoundly changed things, giving Lviv’s role as European Youth Capital (EYC) a new and urgent purpose. The EYC title has since evolved into a far more powerful tool – a call for solidarity, resilience and international support towards both the country and Ukrainian youth.
“Our slogan is ‘Not easy, but move,’” explains the head of Lviv EYC Office Mariia Pihura. “We know it’s not easy now, but we believe things will change someday. We share this status with all the cities, towns, and villages of Ukraine, creating opportunities for youth in a European city.”
At the heart of Lviv’s strategy are four key pillars: the development of a comprehensive youth strategy, the establishment of a youth fund to support local initiatives, the promotion of international youth exchanges, and the development of youth infrastructure – such as the creation of youth centres. Together, these initiatives aim to empower young Ukrainians, even in the most difficult circumstances.
“Now, more than ever, it is important not to give up but to continue as our national poet and writer Ivan Franko puts it ‘breaking this rock’ with faith in a better future,” Mariia emphasises.
adapting in times of war
“Even in times of challenges and war we need to move on” shares Mariia.
This adaptation was highlighted during the 2024 Molodvizh, Ukraine’s largest annual youth event. In its 2024 edition, Molodvizh was designed to prompt young people to think about future reconstruction, technological changes, educational and legal reforms. The main message of the event was to inspire young people to accept challenges and take responsibility for their future. Just days before the event though, Lviv was struck by tragedy when a Russian missile hit the home of EYC’s programme manager, 21-year-old Yaryna Bazylevych, killing her and most members of her family.
Despite the unimaginable grief, the Molodvizh team decided to move forward, turning the event into a tribute to Yaryna. “In moments of despair and grief, Molodvizh became a place of support, humanity, and strength,” Mariia shared. The event took on a new meaning, offering a space for people to honour her memory and continue the work she started. The planned entertainment segments were replaced by a memorial exhibition and a vigil, where visitors paid tribute to Yaryna. “It showed that young people are not going to stop. With memory, respect, and for the sake of those we lost.”
a city united
The tragedy surrounding Molodvizh is just one example of the broader resilience of Lviv’s youth community. The city’s young people continue to move forward, united by a shared vision of hope and determination. “Every day and every minute, young people in Ukraine are fighting for their dreams and lives, demonstrating resilience and determination to change and improve,” says Mariia.
At the core of the city’s fight is a commitment to creating an environment that nurtures and engages the next generation. By sharing knowledge and broadening horizons, they foster connections among those who strive for positive change. This collaborative effort empowers young people to reach new heights, unlocking opportunities that allow them to realise their dreams.
One innovative way Lviv’s young people are fostering this change and uniting the city is through partnerships with local businesses. The Lviv team has collaborated with them to create a range of products – such as candles, socks, special coffee and tea – that not only promote the European Youth Capital as a brand, but also contribute to its mission. A percentage of the sales of these products goes directly to the youth fund, creating a sustainable model for empowering the young people of Lviv. By opening doors to new opportunities, Lviv’s young resident’s are not just surviving the war—they are laying the foundation for a brighter, more hopeful future.
looking ahead
As Lviv looks ahead to 2025, the challenges are immense, but so is the strength of its young people. Lviv’s story is not just about survival – it’s about building a future where young people can thrive. The team hopes that the EYC title can contribute to making the life of young people better even under the current circumstances. Through collaboration within the country and abroad, resilience, and hope, Lviv’s young residents are leading the way and hoping to create a platform for communication between young people all around Europe.
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