Report
ATLANTIS VIII “Youth across the borders: Principles and Values for stronger communities”
La Massana (Andorra) 1st‐8th July 2012
Organized by
With the support of
In the frame of
INDEX
Summary 1
Objectives and Contents 3
1.1 Purpose of the meeting 3 1.2 The support of the European Youth Foundation 5 1.3 General Objectives 6 1.4 Specific Objectives and Contents 6 1.5 Workshops and Methodology 7 (Gender and Sustainable Development; IHL and Principles &Values; Migration and Intercultural Dialogue; Human Rights and Environment; Leadership Skills; YABC) 1.6 Sharing Best Practices 21 1.7 Special Sessions 29 (IFRC Strategy on Violence Prevention, Mitigation and Response; Healthy Lifestyle Promotion; Som.nit project; Club 25 and Blood Donation; Raid Cross) Photography Contest and the Spanish Red Cross campaign 'It's your 1.8 33 responsibility. It's our responsibility'. 1.9 Side Events 34
Organization and Logistics 36
2.1 General Overview 36 2.2 Participants 37 2.3 Facilities and Equipment 38 2.4 Logistics and Staff 38 2.5 Excursion 39 2.6 Visibility 40
41 Evaluation
3.1 Evaluation from the CCM 41
3.2 Evaluation from Participants 43
Follow-up 48
Photos Annexes
SUMMARY
The Centre for the Cooperation in the Mediterranean (CCM), in partnership with the Andorran Red Cross, organized the eighth edition of the Mediterranean Youth Camp Atlantis, with the support of the IFRC MENA Zone and the European Youth Foundation, the fund established in 1972 by the Council of Europe to provide support for youth activities in the European context.
The Atlantis Youth Camp aims to be a melting-pot for cross cultural exchange and dialogue, a valuable opportunity to share experiences beyond the borders and build the capacity of young Red Cross/Red Crescent volunteers.
This event gathered the Mediterranean Red Cross and Red Crescent Youth around a common focus: the Red Cross Red Crescent Fundamental Principles 1 (Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary service, Unity and Universality) and Values (the protection of life, health and human dignity; the respect for the human being; non discrimination; mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace among people; service delivered by volunteers) as a basis of youth behaviour for the benefit of communities across the region.
The eighth edition of Atlantis was held at l’Aldosa de la Massana, Andorra, from the 1st to the 8th of July 2012. The camp was attended by 87 participants, comprised of 42 volunteers representing 19 National Societies (Algeria, Andorra, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Egypt, France, Italy, Lebanon, Libya, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Palestine, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain and Turkey) and 14 international facilitators and speakers from the IFRC P&V Department, the CCM and the RC/RC National Societies of Andorra, Egypt, Lebanon, Italy, Spain and Tunisia.
Furthermore, there were 31 persons among staff members and volunteers from the Andorran Red Cross and the CCM.
For the above mentioned, the 2012 edition of the Youth Camp Atlantis stands as the one with the highest rate of participation so far, as a total of 20 Mediterranean National Societies attended the event.
The agenda included six thematic workshops: two in English (“Gender and Sustainable Development” and “Migration and Intercultural Dialogue”), two in French (“International Humanitarian Law and Principles and Values” and “Human Rights and Environment”) and two more both in English and in French (“YABC – Youth as Agents of Behavioural Change” and “Leadership Skills”). The methodology of work was comprised of mainly interactive and practical activities, with the addition of some very useful theoretical lessons.
The evaluation of Atlantis VIII has been extremely positive. Participants 2 concluded that their overall expectations were met and the percentage of participants considering the general content of the training as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’ was 98%.
OBJECTIVES AND CONTENTS
1.1 Purpose of the meeting
Atlantis is a meeting of the Mediterranean Red Cross and Red Crescent Youth which has consolidated as a referential meeting point for intercultural dialogue and exchange of experiences in the region.
Since the Mediterranean Youth Camp was first conceived during the Mediterranean Conference held in Cairo in 2004, eight Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies have hosted Atlantis: the Italian Red Cross, the Turkish Red Crescent, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, the Red Cross of Serbia, the Moroccan Red Crescent, the French Red Cross, the Tunisian Red Crescent and, in 3 its latest edition, the Andorran Red Cross.
The Atlantis Youth Camp is being displayed in the framework of Strategy 2020 of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), which aims at a better fulfilling of the potential of the Red Cross/Red Crescent at all levels, and at developing sustainable approaches in addressing three key areas: disasters, health risks and social exclusion, and a culture of non- violence and peace.
Crucially, IFRC Strategy 2020 highlights that coping with increasing humanitarian needs also requires a change in mind-sets and attitudes on how we live, and on how we relate to each other. Moreover the Atlantis Youth Camp wants to fulfil the vision of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, as defined by its Constitution (Article 4, version 2007): inspire, encourage, facilitate, and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian activities by National Societies, with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering, and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.
Moreover, the 11th RC/RC Mediterranean Conference emphasized the need to mobilize human resources, especially young people, as actor of behavioural change to strengthen the dialogue with governments and to promote humanitarian diplomacy and advocacy so as to change mentalities towards a more encompassing social inclusion of those who are the most vulnerable.
The mission of the CCM is to facilitate the follow up on the resolutions of the Mediterranean Conference, specifically as regards the Dubrovnik Declaration stemming from the last Conference held in Croatia in 2010 and which tackles priorities such as the role of youth; environment and climate change; the social effects of the world economic crisis; providing assistance and protection to migrants: all interrelated areas in which youth play a fundamental role. Amongst the Declaration's most remarkable points are: 4 - “the principle of respecting diversity, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and cooperation between the National Societies of the Red Cross and Red Crescent who have different histories, cultures and ways of functioning” - “the need to mobilize human resources, especially young people as actors of behavioural change”; - the commitment to “reinforce the role and the action of youth as the key factor in social change and development”; - the commitment to “secure respect through diversity and social inclusion within our Movement in order to set an example for others in the domain of humanitarian action”; - the need to “promote specific programmes which favour the social inclusion of young people and which reduce risks related to marginalization and social and health calamities”.
By building the capacity of young people to establish networks, engage in intercultural dialogue and use technical tools, the Atlantis Youth Camp has been designed as the key tool to deliver the strategic lines above mentioned and aid Mediterranean National Societies in the implementation of the recommendations of the Dubrovnik Declaration for the benefit of the most vulnerable.
Atlantis VIII is meant to make participants more active volunteers as they will be further motivated, organized and supported. Young people contribute with their time and skills regularly in the delivery of services, in resource mobilization, in administrative, governance or advisory functions. National Societies, as well as the CCM are committed to improve quality, standards, capacities and volunteer retention by creating a welcoming and socially inclusive environment. This environment means providing volunteers with training, supervision, and regular evaluation. This will enable us to operate on the much greater scale that is necessary to meet the needs and the vulnerabilities constantly arising in communities.
1.2 The support of the European Youth Foundation 5
The European Youth Foundation (EYF) is a fund established in 1972 by the Council of Europe to provide financial support for European youth activities. Its purpose is to encourage co-operation among young people in Europe by providing financial support to those European youth activities which serve the promotion of peace, understanding and co-operation in a spirit of respect for the Council of Europe's fundamental values such as human rights, democracy, tolerance and solidarity. In occasion of its 40th anniversary, the EYF still supports Youth activities with the purpose of encouraging the promotion of peace, mutual understanding and co-operation in a spirit of respect among young people in Europe.
On the 1st of October 2011 the CCM applied for a grant in the framework of the category A of the projects supported: an international youth meeting, which can take the form of a seminar, conference, workshop, camp, festival, etc.
On the 9th of December 2011, the Programming Committee on Youth decided to allocate the grant for the implementation of the Mediterranean Youth Camp Atlantis VIII.
1.3 General Objectives
In accordance with the recommendations of the last Mediterranean Conference, the common objectives of all Atlantis camps are the following:
Promote intercultural dialogue and partnership among RC/RC youth leaders of the Mediterranean region;
Empower youth as dynamic models of change for their local communities; Enhance capacity building and encourage practical actions and joint activities;
Share knowledge and information about youth programmes and activities; Share best practices and lessons learned with other RC/RC youth branches; Increase and enhance the commitment to the RC/RC Principles and Values. 6
1.4 Specific objectives and Contents
The 2012 edition of Atlantis was mainly devoted to subjects regarding Youth and Principles and Values, by taking into account various issues such as migration, human rights, environment, sustainable development, gender, non discrimination, intercultural dialogue and international humanitarian law.
The respect of the Principles and Values is the foundation of a common understanding which empowers youth to promote a global culture of respect for diversity, non-violence and social inclusion. The RC/RC “Solferino Youth Declaration” (2009) represents the milestone of this Youth Camp, as it states: “In a world full of challenges, we the youth of the Movement commit ourselves to [...] inner change and the development of skills to promote harmony and positive attitudes within communities”; “live our seven Fundamental Principles as agents of behavioural change”; and “renounce violence, promote non-discrimination and respect for diversity, and a culture of peace in the world.”
Given all these premises, the specific objectives of the eighth edition of Atlantis were the following: Build and support capacities of young volunteers to carry out youth work for the most vulnerable in multicultural environments; Promote intercultural interaction and partnerships between young volunteers of the Red Cross/ Red Crescent of the Mediterranean region; Train young volunteers to act as agents of change within their communities in order to combat discrimination and to build a culture of understanding and tolerance.
1.5 Workshops and Methodology
7 The training programme allowed participants to consider, in depth, several sub- themes related to the main targeted subject. Participants were asked to choose between two parallel workshops in the morning and two parallel workshops in the afternoon. A set number of participants attended each workshop. On the contrary, the special sessions counted on the participation of the plenary group.
Following the experience of the previous editions, the team of facilitators was an international one coming not only from different countries but also from various fields of work. The team consisted of RC/RC peer-educators (volunteers or staff members from the IFRC P&V Department, the CCM and the RC/RC National Societies of Andorra, Egypt, Lebanon, Italy, Spain and Tunisia). With regards to the methodology of work, all workshops were comprised of mainly interactive and practical activities, with the addition of some very useful theoretical lessons. The non-cognitive approach, characteristic of the Youth as Agents of Behavioural Change (YABC) toolkit and the Leadership Skills training, distinguished the corresponding workshops. The workshops counted on the active participation and involvement of participants (role playing, practical exercises, real-life situations, plenary discussions, sharing personal experiences, etc). The groups’ philosophy was based on open-mindedness, flexibility and mutual respect.
Hereafter you will find the main contents and outcomes for each of the workshops.
1.5.1 Workshop on ‘Gender and Sustainable Development’
The seven-hour workshop on Gender and Sustainable Development was facilitated by Ms. Rocío Saavedra, a volunteer of the Spanish Red Cross Youth. It was held in English on the 2nd and 3rd of July and tackled gender-related issues from a variety of perspectives to later focus on sustainable development, promoting an enriching debate and the engagement of participants.
The workshop aimed at raising attendants’ awareness so as to deepen their knowledge and raise their awareness towards gender equality, its meaning, 8 issues and challenges as well as the consequences that women's role and work can have on sustainable development as seen from a social, economic, cultural and environmental perspective.
Participants were involved in interactive sessions made of activities and dynamics to enhance their awareness on the relation between gender, women's role and societies’ development, in order to let them think about -and propose- positive actions and projects at local level to counter such challenges.
The programme of the workshop addressed the targeted topic progressively in two sessions and included a number of activities.
After an ice-breaker, participants were divided into males and females groups . Each group had to act out a ‘typical’ day in the daily life of the opposite gender, while other groups had to guess what the scene was about in order to score a point.
This activity led to the debriefing session where terms and concepts such as ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ were clarified, being the first something biological, naturally given
and constant through time, whereas ‘gender’ is behavioural, socially constructed and it can change throughout time and depending on cultures. A guided debate was then proposed on the following questions: - which roles are assigned to which sex? - how did we learn them? - how have they changed through time? Following this activity, participants were divided into small groups ‘culturally related’ and were asked to prepare a short presentation on gender and tell the rest if and how gender roles had changed in their societies.
Tackled was also the role of media in the marking of biased gender roles. To this end, various videos were shown: “Science: it’s a girls’ thing”; “1800 Tequila”; “Beauty and the Beast: Gaston”. 9
The first day session was concluded with the introduction to the concept of ‘cisgender’ and ‘transgender’, the first being a label for individuals who have a match between the gender they were assigned at birth, their bodies, and their personal identity, while the second refers to the general term applied to a variety of individuals, behaviours, and groups involving tendencies to vary from culturally conventional gender roles.
On the 3rd of July the relation between gender and sustainable development was brought to discussion by raising participants’ awareness on the reasons why international organizations focus on women: - women make up more than 50% of the world population; - all societies are genderized (division of work, share in the private/public sphere); - every social group is affected by gender.
After showing participants some figures regarding women participation in education; the wage gap they are often submitted to; entrepreneurship dynamics; their role in the migratory processes and politics, participants
discussed possible solutions from a RC/RC perspective to improve women’s situation in some of the above mentioned areas: Education: National Societies and the media could focus on advocating in favour of women’s and children’s education and governments should support the affected parties financially too. Entrepreneurship: banks should give credits with a lower rate to women in order for them to start a small scale business (or micro credits). Wage gap: after analysing the peculiarities in each of their own country of origin, the group suggested to have better laws for equality; greater tolerance; cherish life more than profit... Migration: involve women in leadership positions; promote the setting up of social centres for women in need...
10 To convey the fundamental link between gender, women and sustainable development, the video “The girl effect” was shown.
In the closing part of the session, more dynamics were carried out, focused on participants’ initiative in solving difficult situations dealing with women in private/public contexts.
Outputs of the workshop The two-day session helped participants became acquainted with issues which made them more aware of societies’ different dynamics and the biased concept on gender we may all have. At the same time participants were also able to further develop their critical thinking which helped them develop possible solutions to the daily problems both women and men undergo in their social/private lives due to such pre-conceived ideas on what gender should be and its supposed “static” features.
Moreover the workshop, by conveying the crucial link between gender, the role of women and sustainable development cleared doubts on the actions of international organizations and boosted a critical thinking in participants on the action to be taken at Red cross/Red Crescent Youth level.
1.5.2 Workshop on ‘International Humanitarian Law and Principles and Values’
The seven-hour workshop on International Humanitarian Law and Principles and Values, held in French on the 2nd and 3rd of July, was facilitated by Mr. Josep David Pol Pedròs, a volunteer from the Andorran RC.
The aim of the workshop was to strengthen knowledge and awareness of young people towards International Humanitarian Law, its basic and principal elements, its relation with human rights and the Principles and Values of the RC/RC.
It included several subjects, such as the limits on armed conflicts, human dignity, the basic notions of International Humanitarian Law, the concept of enemy and 11 civilians, the role of women and children during wartime, the witnesses of war, the children combatants and the landmines. Participants were engaged in debates and practical activities to enhance their knowledge on International Humanitarian Law in order to sensitize their communities to limit the effects of armed conflicts.
During the sessions, two videos were shown: the first about the IHL, the ICRC and the Geneva Conventions and the second about the consequences of using landmines.
The programme of the workshop addressed the targeted topic progressively in two sessions and included the following dynamics:
Debate on the following questions:
◦ What is war? Do fair wars exist?
◦ Does any right exist for the mere fact of being human?
◦ How to define the enemy? How should we treat a wounded enemy?
◦ How do we define a civilian? What happens when a civilian helps the enemy?
◦ Are there places that should not be attacked?
◦ What does human dignity mean?
◦ What can the witnesses of war do?
◦ What is a humanitarian action?
◦ Why are children used as soldiers? Participants, divided in groups, analysed several pictures trying to understand if the activities represented were run by the RC/RC National Societies, the IFRC or the ICRC The facilitator divided participants into four groups and gave them a copy of the Geneva Convention. Each group, after having analysed the text, acted out a situation representative of its Convention. Participants were divided into two groups: civilians and soldiers. Each group reflected, from its point of view, on the social and economic 12 consequences of landmines.
Outputs of the Workshop Participants understood the necessity to spread the knowledge of International Humanitarian Law in order to reduce the consequences of armed conflicts. They discussed on what human dignity is and how they can sensitize the community to protect it. Participants also had the opportunity to reflect about the role that the different components of the RC/RC Movement have during wartime and to debate on IHL as the fundamental instrument to ensure the protection of human beings during armed conflicts.
1.5.3 Workshop on ‘Migration and Intercultural Dialogue’
The seven-hour workshop on Migration and Intercultural dialogue, held in English on the 6th and 7th of July, was facilitated by Ms. Nour Oughly and Mr. Stefan Galve, representing the UNESCO Chair in Intercultural Dialogue in the Mediterranean –Rovira y Virgili University of Tarragona, Spain.
The aim of the workshop was to strengthen knowledge and awareness of young people towards the social effects and the impacts of displaced people such as migrants, refugees, etc., and which consequences these could have in the community of reception.
It addressed several topics such as the causes of migration, discrimination as a 13 matter of economic issues, cultural diversity as a necessary component of a society, the different attitudes concerning knowledge and contact with new cultures or persons, the models of managing diversity (assimilation, segregation, melting pot, multiculturalism, pluralism and interculturalism), and intercultural dialogue.
Participants were engaged in debates and practical activities to enhance their awareness on the social inclusion of migrants and the role of intercultural dialogue.
The programme of the workshop addressed the targeted topic progressively in two sessions and included various dynamics.
During ‘the mirror game dynamic’ participants were divided into groups, and were given a description of a migrant. They were then asked to fill a paper with some information about what they thought the situation of the migrant might have been (economic profile, discrimination, relation with the host society.... etc) then the real personalities of the migrants were revealed to participants: they were famous writers, Nobel Prize winners, sport stars. Another round on the profiles of migrants followed. In this case the persons turned to be criminals, or
some dangerous persons of migrant origin. The idea was to show participants that migrants are just normal people in special conditions, concluding that amongst migrants we can find good and bad; successful and unsuccessful people. The objective of the game was also to overcome stereotypes, and think of the reasons and factors that affect the position and situation of migrants in a new society, to understand the reasons of isolation, marginalisation, discrimination etc.; to show them that the examples mentioned were the radical points, and between these two points there is a whole variety of people and circumstances, and that those extreme cases are something similar to what we find in host societies.
The game was followed by an open debate during which participants were asked if they were surprised by whom the persons had actually turned out to be in both 14 cases, and what were the factors that had affected their description; if they had thought that these persons could be representative figures of immigrants, and to write their reflection about their ideas as a group.
The second day, the workshop consisted in a presentation that contained the concepts of migration and intercultural dialogue, the definitions of migrants and host societies, the many models of managing diversity, what intercultural dialogue is and how can we reach an effective one.
In this session participants also carried out an activity in groups, in which each group had a scenario. The activity consisted in having two different cultures that were forced to live together, with their own different traditions. Groups had to talk and communicate in order to find an agreement to live together in a way that respected the values of each of them and allowed them to practice their tradition or religion.
The activity was followed by a debate where participants had to explain what was difficult to them in the process of establishing a dialogue, and what they thought was the best way to reach it.
Outputs of the Workshop Participants understood the importance of promoting cooperation and understanding between people’s diversity and the fundamental role of the RC/RC Youth in promoting a change in attitude when dealing with migration-related issues and advocating for a more inclusive society. To prevent discrimination and to foster social inclusion it is important to promote the dialogue among cultures, since stereotypes and discrimination arise from the lack of knowledge of the "other", which may trigger fear. Intercultural dialogue starts when we accept that the others are equal to us, and that they have the capacity to work with us to build a common society.
1.5.4 Workshop on Human Rights and Environment
15 The seven-hour workshop on Human Rights and Environment, held in French on the 6th and 7th of July, was facilitated by Mr. Enrico Di Lena, Ms. Isabelle David, Ms. Montse Lopez and Ms. Silvia Piscitelli from the Centre for the Cooperation in the Mediterranean.
The aim of the workshop was to strengthen knowledge and awareness of young people towards Human Rights, its basic and principal elements, the relation with environmental issues, such as water access and climate change, as well as the Principles and Values of the RC/RC Movement.
It addressed several topics such as the concept and the characteristics of human rights, the analysis of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the values that it includes (human dignity, equality, freedom, respect, non-discrimination, tolerance, justice, responsibility), the relation between human rights, environment and sustainable development, the emerging human rights, the access to water as a human right, how to develop an awareness campaign on human rights and environment. Facilitators also showed a video representing the Human Rights history (Histoire des droits de l’homme: http://fr.humanrights.com/home.html)
The programme of the workshop addressed the targeted topic progressively in two sessions and included the following dynamics: Human Rights’ bingo: a table of question about several sustainable skills and behaviours. Each participant completed the bingo card by finding the answers, with the assistance of the other participants, who had the correct responses listed. This icebreaker made participants reflect on the importance of the sharing of knowledge about human rights. “I have a right” activity: facilitators divided participants into two groups and delivered them 18 cards representing 18 rights. Each group, representing a community, had the chance to add 4 more rights to those already given. The activity consisted in a group negotiation about what rights to lose when for three times the government asked for a reduction of the community’s rights. This activity let participants reflect on what 16 cutting down rights means and how difficult it is to give them up. Facilitators displayed two sentences regarding the emerging human rights and participants had to decide and discuss their position on environmental issues, deciding if they agreed or disagreed with the sentences. Participants acted out a role play in which everyone (as the mayor, the members of a fisher association, a teacher, a hotel owner, the members of an ecological organisation) had to take a position towards the building of a breakwater and towards the growing tourist demand. Participants, divided in two groups, planned an awareness campaign on human rights and environment. Both groups planned an awareness campaign about the access to water.
Outputs of the workshop Participants could improve their knowledge about human rights and environmental protection and were given the basic tools to reflect on sustainable development as a human right. They understood the role that everyone has in reducing the impact that our production system has on environment, society, and economy. They understood
the importance of advocating in favour of a cultural change in order to achieve a sustainable life, which includes changes in the education system.
1.5.5 Workshop on Leadership Skills
The six-hour workshop on Leadership Skills, held in two different sessions, one in English (2nd and 3rd July) and the other in French (6th and 7th July), was facilitated by Mr. Marcello Sgroi, from the Italian Red Cross Youth.
This workshop aimed to improve participants' capacities to play a leadership role in their National Society and to promote a positive change in attitudes and behaviours. The methodology of this workshop was based on the principles of freedom and non-judgement: no one was required to participate in the activities 17 if they didn't feel comfortable doing so and no one was allowed to judge other's thoughts and attitudes.
A non-cognitive way of learning (based on the techniques of the theatre of the oppressed theory) was chosen in order to let participants express themselves through their bodies and let them be responsible for their own education and relationships with others.
The key issues of the workshops were: Communication Trust and Credibility Cooperation These key issues can all be included in one concept: "Relationships."
Every activity was aimed at helping participants to reflect on their own leadership skills. At the end of the session, there was a debriefing to support participants in linking their experiences with their feelings in order to relate and fully understand the objective of the workshop.
The dynamics implemented were the following:
Non judgment: describing a person of the group only according to what is visible. Brainstorming: group discussion on leadership skills, both positive and negative aspects. Communication bridge activities: walking in the room, moving in the room, listening to the body, walking quickly or slowly, walking in a straight line, looking for someone else by eye contact, looking for a hand, and walking together. Games on disseminating leadership: starting and stopping game, both with control outside and inside the group; following the leader (everyone is proposing a way to walk: the team follows); group dance following inner music; group dance following external music. Blind games on trust: walking blind-folded in groups, leading the blind, 18 the pathway of the blind, blind dance. Non-verbal games on vision and intent: the participants made their own music with the body and directed an orchestra made by participants who played their body or used their voice. This game is aimed at encouraging people to communicate with non verbal language and make their own music with the resources available.
Outputs of the Workshop Participants understood how leadership is based on relationships through communication, trust, and cooperation. They learned to use creativity to solve problems, to listen to their own and to the others’ feelings, to work and think as a team, and to have trust within the group. They learned that good leadership is based on a balance between the leader and the followers. This balance is based on trust and relationships: a good leadership must be a shared leadership.
At the end of the workshop, participants were able to trust one another: everyone was able to lead and follow the other, respecting their own and others’ limits and weaknesses; everyone was able to add their contribution to the team, playing their own role and sharing their feelings and thoughts.
1.5.6 Workshop on YABC
The six-hour workshop on YABC (Youth as Agents of Behavioural Change), held in two different sessions, one in French (2nd and 3rd July) and the other in English (6th and 7th July), was facilitated by Mr. Tamer Ahmad Abdelfattah from the Egyptian RC, Ms. Manel Meftah from the Tunisian RC and Ms. Bouchra Makhlouf from the French RC.
The aim of this workshop was to spread knowledge and practice of the YABC initiative and how we can use this toolkit in our National Societies within our programmes with youth in order to make a positive change in our communities.
One of the first steps in approaching the YABC initiative for participants were the 19 morning Qi-Gong sessions, aimed at taking and dedicating time to oneself, restoring the links with the natural environment surrounding the camp, and harmonizing and balancing inner energies.
YABC uses an unconventional and non-cognitive learning methodology focusing on role plays, simulations, games and visualization exercises. Through such dynamics participants explore their feelings and emotions according to their first hand experience to then move to an intellectual analysis and understanding among peers.
The programme of the workshop addressed the topic progressively in two sessions and included the following dynamics: Facilitators showed several pictures and asked participants to reflect on those pictures on three cognitive levels: what is described in the picture? What is our intellectual perception of the picture? What do we feel when looking at the picture?
This activity made participants think on how our experience, our culture and our history can affect the interpretation of reality.
Participants were divided in couples. In every couple, one had to repeat the movement of the other, like a mirror. Couples were lined up and participants had to replicate the actions of the others down the line. This activity made participants think about trust, care for others and team building. Participants, sitting in a circle, had to transmit a message. At the end of the activity the message was incomprehensible. This activity made participants reflect on the importance of active listening and the empathy to communicate with others: to understand a message, we need to get the other person's shoes and listen actively without prejudice. Every participant wrote on four sheets of paper the following things: - their best piece of clothing - their best thing owned 20 - their best room in the house - their best person known ‘Destiny’ came several times and took away the papers it wanted until the point where participants were left with only one sheet. This activity made participants reflect on how difficult it is to lose the things and persons we love and it lead them to think about the life of forced migrants who are obliged to leave their countries. Participants were divided in couples and, in turn, each member of the couple had the power to make the other do whatever he/she wanted. This activity made participants experience their feelings when they have to give orders or when they have to obey. Facilitators attached on the forehead of each participant a post-it on which their identity was written: each participant could see the others’ identity but not his own. Everyone had to choose a partner for the holidays. This activity made participants experience stereotypes, misjudgement and discrimination.
Outputs of the workshop By experiencing ‘real life’ situations, participants learned how self-criticism, dropping bias and inner change can lead us towards a more inclusive and peace- based society. Critical thinking can prevent us from falling into social dynamics which are built on prejudice and stereotypes, developing a responsible and priority-based behaviour which starts by knowing our limits.
1.6 Sharing Best Practices
On the 2nd, 3rd, 6th and 7th of July, from 6 to 7 pm, participants were asked to present programmes and/or activities that their RC/RC Youth Sections implemented, and are still implementing, with respect to the dissemination of the 21 RC/RC Principles and Values.
Algerian Red Crescent It works in seven different fields: first aid, disaster preparedness, social activities, Restoring Family Links, health awareness and prevention, psychological support, International Humanitarian Law.
The representative of the Algerian Red Crescent illustrated some of the projects carried out by their National Society and its Youth, such as: - assistance to the elderly in retirement centres - assistance to people with disabilities in specialized centres - assistance to sick people in hospitals or in the Algerian RC health centres - assistance to poor people: during Ramadan, daily activity of food distribution, provision of school material, etc) - assistance to refugees at borders - support to countries in situation of crisis, natural disasters, war, etc: provision of food and medicines. The Algerian RC also carries out some specific projects focused on women and youth social inclusion and environmental protection.
Andorra Red Cross It works in the following field: training (first aid, water rescue, mountain rescue, emergency response, psychological support, basic social training, basic institutional training, basic youth training), first aid (mountain rescue and prevention), social activities (tele-home care, psychological support, social inclusion of vulnerable groups, home library service, activities and workshops in prisons), health (blood donation campaigns in collaboration with the French Blood Establishment), international cooperation (fundraising, disaster relief, development cooperation), promotion and dissemination of RC/RC Principles and Values, youth (programmes about a healthy and safe behaviour and prevention, RC/RC Movement promotion).
22 Red Cross Society of Bosnia-Herzegovina It implements the following programmes: tracing service, home care service, voluntary blood donation, organizational development, public health education, mine awareness programme, first aid, disaster preparedness and relief. The delegation of the Red Cross of Bosnia- Herzegovina presented the Youth programmes: inter-entity seminars, summer camps for youth, international youth seminars, workshops, gatherings and camps. Young people also take part in other programmes: Red Cross in Action, Promoting Human Values, Home Care, Care for the Elderly, Reproductive Health and First Aid.
Croatian Red Cross It works in the following fields: first aid, health, voluntary blood donation, water rescue and prevention of water accidents, tracing, IHL dissemination, community services, mine awareness programme, disaster preparedness and response, Youth.
Activities and programmes of the Croatian Red Cross Youth include: - Education for humanity – developing the feelings of solidarity and
tolerance, compassion, impartiality, respect for human being and living in peace; - Health Education – protection of health, dangers for health, first aid training and self-aid; - Developing social awareness – organizing various forms of assistance, developing responsible behaviour, communication skills, and friendship.
Egyptian Red Crescent It works in the following fields: youth capacity building (first aid trainings, YABC activities, trainings about the Sphere project, International Humanitarian Law dissemination), disaster preparedness and response, dissemination of International Humanitarian Law, provision of health and medical services, provision of social services. 23
The Egyptian Red Crescent is also implementing several programmes and activities for youth in its 25 youth clubs,, such as sports, artistic and cultural activities.
French Red Cross It works in the following fields: social services (assistance to the homeless, assistance in hospitals, donation of clothes, visits to prisoners, and assistance to refugees), first aid (emergency units, schools of professional training and psychological support, training centres for nurses), international cooperation (wat-san, shelter, food). The French Red Cross Youth, who has developed its own strategy, is working in five areas: health, solidarity, citizenship, interculturality and environment. It also disseminates RC/RC Principles and Values and IHL in schools. Recently it has started to implement YABC programmes.
Italian Red Cross The Italian Red Cross Youth works in the following areas: health and safety promotion (defend and protect health and life), P&V (fight against
discrimination), Community Care, International Cooperation, Active Participation, Planning, Fundraising, Communication and Promotion. As regards the spreading of RC/RC Principles and Values, the Italian RC Youth is engaged in building a culture of non violence and peace through the following activities: - Trainings: for IHL instructors, P&V peer-educators and P&V trainers - National projects and local projects/activities - P&V are mainstreamed in every training (e.g. induction course for Volunteers, Youth Leadership training, etc.) The Italian RC delegation also presented the project “Migration 2.0”, an initiative aiming at fostering positive attitudes towards migrants and at raising awareness on the humanitarian implication of migration.
24 Lebanese Red Cross The Lebanese RC Youth Department encompasses around 1400 volunteers implementing the following programmes: HIV/AIDS programme, prisoners and juveniles programme, environment programme, road safety programme, humanitarian principles and values programme.
In the framework of the dissemination of RC/RC Principles and Values, the Lebanese delegation presented the Children’s Festival and the Lebanese Peace Festival. They also showed three videos about the activities carried out during the past few years.
Libyan Red Crescent The Libyan Red Crescent Society is composed by 34 branches and 5000 Volunteers.
It works in the following areas: assistance to migrants, restoring family links, managing refugees’ camps, relief distribution, first aid trainings, mine risk education, psychological support.
Malta Red Cross The Malta Red Cross works in two main sections: the operations section (ambulance and first aid service, first aid trainings to volunteers, disaster response and preparedness) and the welfare section (human support and social assistance).
The Malta Red Cross Youth are active in the following programmes: teaching English to refugees, psychological support and leisure activities in refugee centres. The Malta Red Cross delegation presented also the following projects: Water Rescue and Multiple Casualty Transporter.
Red Cross Society of Monaco It works in the following fields: first aid, international humanitarian action, 25 health, social services, blood donation. It doesn’t have a Youth Section: young people are present in all the sections according to their interest, skills and wishes. They are involved in the following activities: first aid, emergency response, health (nurses), support to international programmes, and support to the elderly, clothes donation.
Moroccan Red Crescent It works in the following fields: health and social affairs, disaster preparedness and response, first aid and volunteering, humanitarian principles and values, youth.
The Moroccan Red Crescent Youth implement the following activities in the framework of each field of action: - health and social affairs: health care in the local communities, blood donation, local social development; - disaster preparedness and response and psychological support; - first aid and volunteering: first aid trainings, recruiting campaigns The Moroccan Red Crescent delegation also presented the YABC project that the Youth is implementing.
Montenegro Red Cross The Montenegro Red Cross is active in the following field: organisational development, IHL and RC/RC P&V dissemination, health activities (first aid, voluntary blood donation, HIV/AIDS and TBC, prevention activities), social activities (home care and psycho-social support), disaster management, and tracing service.
The Montenegro Red Cross Youth is implementing different programmes, activities and actions in primary and highs schools. Children and young adults are mostly involved in First Aid programme, and they participate in the local and national First Aid competition. Various workshops in the area of preventive health, dissemination and International Humanitarian Law are being organized in schools. All the activities and educations which are 26 being implemented for the youngsters focus on the promotion of humanitarian values (tolerance, personal and cultural identity and respect for diversity, gender balance, fight against discrimination, etc).
Palestine Red Crescent Society It is active in the following fields: medical emergency services, primary health care, secondary health care, disaster management, IHL dissemination, rehabilitation and ability development, psychosocial support, youth and volunteering.
The Youth of Palestine RCS carries out the following activities: support to all PRCS services, social, environmental, health and cultural activities, landmine awareness campaigns, summer camps, capacity building.
Portuguese Red Cross The Portuguese RC delegation presented the following national projects carried out by Youth: - “RC at school” aiming at spreading RC principles and values among children and youngsters and disseminating the RC humanitarian actions,
- “Healthy Eating Game” aiming at promoting healthy food habits among children, - The summer campaigns about skin cancer prevention; - “Copos – quem decide és tu”: a project aiming at raising awareness on risks connected to alcohol abuse.
Red Cross of Serbia It works in the following areas: social area (home care), health activities (first aid, blood donation), disaster preparedness and response, tracing services, international cooperation and Youth. The youth volunteers are engaged in a range of activities, such as: Red Cross summer schools, youth camps, trainings for recruiting volunteers, Red Cross campaigns, promotion and dissemination of Humanitarian Values and IHL. 27
The delegation of the Red Cross of Serbia presented the project “Promotion of Human Values in 12 local branches in Serbia”, which aims at reducing violence among young people aged between 8 and 14 by improving their communication and non-violent conflict resolution skills.
Spanish Red Cross The action of the Spanish Red Cross Youth is based on five areas: education, participation, prevention, training, social intervention. It runs the following programmes: health promotion and education (food and nutrition, drugs and new addictions, sexuality, HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, prevention of accidents and first aid), gender perspective and coeducation (coeducation and non-sexist education, prevention of gender violence, mainstreaming gender in every Spanish Red Cross action, empowerment and involvement of women), participation (child and youth participation, participation of the volunteers in the association and in the International Movement), social intervention and inclusion (intervention with children and youth at risk, prevention of violent behaviours, prevention and family support), environmental education and sustainability (sustainable development, global warming,
responsible consumption, good environmental practices), education for development and international cooperation (human rights, children rights, IHL, intercultural education, education for peace and development, humanitarian aid).
Slovenian Red Cross The Slovenian Red Cross carries out the following activities: tracing service, first aid, blood donation, disaster preparedness and response and several humanitarian programmes: health programmes, care for the elderly, social welfare, youth programmes. The Slovenian RC is highly involved in implementing the dissemination of IHL in schools and the YABC programme.
28 The Youth of the Slovenian RC is also engaged in the following activities with children: after school activities, “Hunger Day” campaign, first aid competitions in primary schools and vacations.
Tunisian Red Crescent It is active in the following sectors: health (blood donation, HIV/AIDS, awareness campaigns), social assistance (collecting goods for poor people and delivering food during Ramadan), disaster management (disaster preparedness and relief, road safety programmes), first aid (trainings addressing RC volunteers or the community), promotion and dissemination of RC/RC Principles and Values and information about Tunisian RC activities.
Concerning Youth, the Tunisian RC carries out several programmes mainly focused on YABC.
Turkish Red Crescent It works in the following fields: disaster preparedness and response, relief services, health and social support services, blood donation, international cooperation.
The Turkish Red Crescent Youth is involved in the Eurodesk and in the ‘Youth in Action’ programmes, as well as in the European Voluntary Service and they organized University and High School Student clubs. They are also engaged in the Habitat for Youth programme.
Centre for the Cooperation in the Mediterranean The Centre presented its mission, objectives and areas of action and discussed main concerns and goals on Youth activities and its approach.
The youth platform Med Youth Port@l was also presented and the active use of existing resources to strengthen and build new networks at regional and Youth level was underlined.
29
1.7 Special Sessions
Several plenary sessions were presented during the training week, all aimed at sharing information and best practises on the topics targeted. Their content is detailed hereafter.
1.7.1. IFRC Strategy on Violence Prevention, Mitigation and Response.
Ms. Reema Chopra and Mr. Hamzah Zekrya, from the IFRC Principles and Values department, presented the IFRC Strategy on Violence Prevention, Mitigation and Response.
First, participants watched an IFRC video addressing the different kinds of violence existing in our society. Afterwards, the facilitators explained how the IFRC strategy on violence was achieved, and its purpose.
In 2007, violence was declared a great humanitarian challenge at the 30th International Conference of the Red Cross Red Crescent and in 2008 an IFRC network on violence prevention, mitigation and response was established.
In 2009, violence was mentioned in the three strategic aims of the IFRC Strategy 2020 whose content is "Promote social inclusion and a culture of non-violence and peace". The IFRC Strategy on violence has been officially launched in September 2010. Its purpose is to provide specific strategic directions to National Societies to implement the three strategic aims as each of them relates to self- directed and interpersonal violence including urban violence. The Global Strategy does not cover collective violence, which includes armed conflicts and internal strife.
The speakers explained to participants the different kinds of violence and their impact on society and described the standard programmes that the Federation is encouraging.
30 1.7.2 Healthy lifestyle promotion
Mr. Miguel Lago, from the Portuguese Red Cross Youth, on the morning of the 4th of July, presented several programmes carried out by his National Society in the framework of the Healthy Lifestyle Promotion and Drug Response: -“Copos – quem decide és tu”, a national project targeting young people from 14 to 20 years of age and aiming at raising awareness on risks connected to alcohol abuse; - “Improving harm reduction strategies in Europe: a Red Cross approach”, an international project, carried out in collaboration with Villa Maraini, the Italian RC, the Bulgarian RC, the Latvian RC, the French RC, the Croatian RC and the Macedonian RC, aiming at strengthening the capacities of the partner organizations in developing and implementing drug prevention and harm reduction programmes; - four local projects on combined selective and indicated prevention, targeting children and youngsters at risks and individuals with signalized drug usage patterns. These projects aim at preventing substance use and abuse, building social and individual competences and increasing awareness and knowledge in drugs’ effects and risks;
- two local projects about selective prevention and risk reduction interventions, targeting children and youngsters at risk, groups with signalized drug usage patterns and young drug users. These projects aim at preventing harmful substance uptake, building social and individual competences and increasing awareness and knowledge on drugs’ effects and risks.
1.7.3 Som.Nit project
On the morning of the 4th of July, Ms. Eva Martinez Bonet and Ms. Sara Romero Casas from the youth section of the Spanish Red Cross in Catalonia presented the Som.Nit project. It is a project concerning information, prevention and risk reduction of drug use and it has been working since 1999. 31 This project has two main objectives: - making drug users aware of the existence of risks (physical, psychological and social) related to drug use; - offering practical guidelines to avoid, prevent or reduce these risks, respecting the individual freedom in decision-making. Som.nit Project offers to young people informative leaflets about drugs and other health issues, free condoms, personal and confidential support and advice, slide projection of preventive messages, drug analysis, participative activities, etc. This project is implemented in public and private night leisure time spaces (discos, festivals, concert halls, etc), high schools and education centres.
1.7.4 Club 25 and blood donation
On the morning of the 4th of July, the delegations of the National RC Societies of Croatia and Serbia presented the International Club 25, an initiative started in Zimbabwe in 1989 (for more info see International Club 25)
Club 25 encourages young adults aged 16 to 25 to do voluntary, safe blood donations. Members commit to donate blood regularly and to adopting a healthy
lifestyle in order to be a low-risk donor. They raise awareness about blood donation among their peers, and motivate others to donate.
Belonging to Club 25 provides young people with the peer support that is crucial in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a sense of belonging, purpose and achievement.
Club 25 represents a revolution in blood banking. Young donors are providing a blood supply to save lives, but are also making a valuable, wider contribution, as they take action to safeguard their own health and support other young people to do the same.
Club 25 represents a shift in focus, away from viewing blood donors just as a source of blood to save lives, towards a more holistic view of them as promoters 32 of health.
By including health promotion in the existing blood donor infrastructure, it is possible to tap into the ‘well community’ that constitutes a nation’s voluntary blood donor panel. Active and inactive blood donors are empowered to take control of their own health and support others to do the same.
1.7.5 Raid Cross
On the afternoon of the 4th of July, the delegations of the Lebanese Red Cross and the French Red Cross, together with the support of other volunteers, organized, managed and developed a 5 hours session of Raid Cross, a role play based on the application of the International Humanitarian Law, to learn the rules of war in an innovative and interactive way.
This activity was intended to encourage participants to approach IHL illustrating the different rules and to show the players their practical application both as field practice and in its implementation in the International Criminal Court. Participants, divided in groups, played different roles, such as combatants, civilians and humanitarian workers and had the opportunity to live different
scenarios that the game includes on prisoners of war, the treatment of wounded people, combatants, humanitarian assistance, and military decision-making.
In this edition, the session also included a focus on the status and treatment of refugees in case of armed conflict: they experienced, even if just for a few hours and in a smaller scale, the feelings and emotions that people facing a great challenge such as a conflict can feel.
The game ends with a trial or general debriefing. Although the players’ understanding increases while they are playing the game, the trial is where one can really see the effects of the game. In this session all game leaders are arrested and the players accuse them of not following the rules of war. Then the players search for suitable punishments and the teams get the chance to defend 33 their own actions. At the end of the discussion, they understand that a trial is necessary and each team is judged as a whole, to avoid targeting individuals.
1.8 Photography Contest and the Spanish Red Cross campaign 'It's your responsibility. It's our responsibility'.
During the whole week participants could enjoy the 15 most representative photographs selected among the all pictures that participated to the 4th photography contest for youth, organized by the CCM and launched in the month of March.
The contest had the objective of giving Mediterranean young adults an opportunity to express themselves creatively and share their views on youth, their capabilities of being agents of change in their own communities, volunteering actions and the RC/RC principles and values in action. The goal of the CCM in creating this contest is to help the youth realize their potential and value for creating positive changes in the world.
The theme of this year’s contest, directly related to the general theme of this edition of Atlantis, was "Youth across the borders: one click for one change", portraying the humanitarian values related to the Seven Fundamental Principle of the RC/RC Movement. The contest was open to all individuals between the ages of 18 and 30 who live within the countries of the Mediterranean Conference or neighbouring countries and was won by Abdessamie Elkabir, from the Moroccan Red Crescent with the pictures titled “Humanity”. (For more information see CCM_4th photo Contest).
Throughout the camp, participants could also count on the exhibition belonging to the campaign 'It's your responsibility. It's our responsibility' by the Spanish Red Cross. The exhibition was composed of sketches by well-known Spanish cartoonists portraying everyday life scenes related to the difficulties of 34 conciliating personal, family and working life, and the consequences that such lack of conciliation has, especially for women.
1.9 Side Events
In accordance with the themes proposed, different side events were displayed in the evenings. In the general context of RC/RC Principles and Values, the activities addressed current and fundamental challenges such as climate change, intercultural dialogue and first aid.
On the 2nd of July, participants could enjoy a First Aid interactive demonstration run by the delegation of the RC of Serbia, in collaboration with the Croatian RC, the RC of Bosnia-Herzegovina and the Montenegro RC. Divided into four groups, participants could visit four rescue stations displaying several first aid procedures in case of heart attack, wounds, fractures, shock, loss of consciousness, suffocation, etc.
The following evening, with the aim of exchanging material from their National Societies and sharing a common space of cultural traditions based on
gastronomy, dance and music, a “Cultural Flee Market” was set up. Participants had the opportunity to approach their partners’ cultures and habits and enjoy an inclusive atmosphere.
On the 6th, the participants could enjoy the TERRA game, a Spanish Red Cross role play aiming at raising awareness and taking action towards environmental challenges as related to climate change. The game laid the foundation for group discussions regarding the role of civil and private stakeholders in the decision- making process and its consequences on the environment.
On the last night, the 7th, a farewell party was organized by the Andorran Red Cross: participants danced and enjoyed their last evening together.
35
ORGANIZATION AND LOGISTICS
2.1 General Overview
In order to guarantee a geographical distribution of the several editions of Atlantis, the CCM and the Andorran Red Cross agreed to host this camp in l’Aldosa de la Massana, Andorra, during the summer of 2012. The Director and the Youth Officer of the CCM attended several preparatory meeting to discuss the general lines of the camp, the agenda, the logistics, and more. The camp was held in Andorra from the 1st to the 8th of July 2012. It counted on the collaboration of the IFRC MENA Zone and the European Youth Foundation.
In May 2012, an e-mail to Mediterranean National Societies was sent, enclosing 36 the following documents: an invitation letter, terms of reference, the draft programme, and an application form and visa assistance form (see annexes for samples). The CCM was responsible for dealing with consular representations, through the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to facilitate the issue of visas for those nationalities which needed one. All visas were issued on time and no particular problems occurred.
A week before the beginning of the camp a practical information sheet and the final programme were sent to participants and facilitators (see annexes) as well as the content outlines of each workshop, in order to inform participants on the main organisational aspects and the general agenda, and to allow them to reach the camp with a basic knowledge of the objectives, contents and thematic background of the workshops.
On Saturday, the 30th of June, most participants arrived in Barcelona. The volunteers of the Spanish Red Cross in Catalonia, identified by the emblem, took care of the transportation of the participants from the airport to the Hostel in Barcelona (Youth Hostel Pere Tarrés) where they spent one night. The participants having their flights back home on the 9th of July also stayed an
extra night in Barcelona, all covered by the organization at the Sun and Moon Hostel.
On Sunday, the 1st of July, participants, along with the CCM staff, reached the Andorran RC delegation in l’Aldosa de la Massana.
In the evening, the opening ceremony was chaired by Ms. Ariana Potrafki, the CCM Acting Director; Mr. Enrico Di Lena, the CCM Youth Desk; Ms. Delfina Araus and Dr. Michel Alvarez Marfany, members of the Board of the Andorran RC; Ms. Isabel Castelao, the Director of the Andorran RC; and Ms. Anna Arias Ratès, Volunteering, Programmes and Campaigns coordinator of the Andorran Red Cross.
37 The closing ceremony, on the evening of Friday the 8th, was lead by the Centre for the Cooperation in the Mediterranean and the Andorran Red Cross who gave participants the certificates of attendance and training.
2.2 Participants
The eighth edition of Atlantis was attended by 87 participants, comprised of 42 volunteers representing 19 National Societies (Algeria, Andorra, Bosnia- Herzegovina, Croatia, Egypt, France, Italy, Lebanon, Libya, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Palestine, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain and Turkey) and 14 international facilitators and speakers from the IFRC P&V Department, the CCM and the RC/RC National Societies of Andorra, Egypt, Lebanon, Italy, Spain and Tunisia. Furthermore, there were 31 staff persons from the Andorran Red Cross and the CCM. The 20 Mediterranean National Societies represent the 80% of NS in this area. Gender balance was plenty ensured among participants’ distribution.
The requested profile of participants was: Youth volunteers between 18 and 30 years of age;
Able to communicate in English and/or French in order to actively participate in working groups, role-plays, etc. Youth volunteers that: - play an active role in their National Society; - are involved in programmes focused on the topic of the youth camp; - are able to work in a team with other participants and take an active part in discussions.
2.3 Facilities and Equipment
Atlantis VIII took place in l’Aldosa de la Massana, at the ‘Hotel Del Bisset’, a family-run hotel located on the Andorran mountains. A meeting room attached to 38 the hotel was also provided by the town’s council. Participants were lodged in shared rooms (of 2-3 or 4 people), all equipped with a private washroom.
The Andorran Red Cross provided the camp with all the materials required by the facilitators. Pens and notes books were distributed to participants at the beginning of the camp, together with a folder containing the programme, the workshops’ contents outlines, pins and brochures from CCM. Wi-Fi internet connection was also available in the hotel.
2.4 Logistics and Staff
All the transportation from/to the airport (in Barcelona) and for the sightseeing activities was ensured by the CCM, the Andorran RC and the Spanish RC in Catalonia.
On the CCM side, the camp was managed by. Mr. Enrico Di Lena (CCM Youth Officer) who was in charge of the overall coordination of the event, with the support of Ms. Ariana Potrafki (CCM Acting Director), Ms. Montse Lopez and Ms. Silvia Piscitelli (desk officers of the CCM), and several volunteers of the CCM.
The Andorran Red Cross responsible for the camp was Ms. Anna Arias Ratès (Volunteering, Programmes and Campaigns coordinator), with the support of Patricia García (trainer) and a team of volunteers.
2.5 Excursion
On the 5th of July, as a leisure activity in order to let participants share some free time and get to know new sights, the organization of Atlantis VIII scheduled an excursion to let them enjoy the time in Andorra.
In the morning participants could enjoy a fresh atmosphere while having a walk on the mountain landscape of Andorra. Some volunteers of the mountain rescue 39 team of the Andorra Red Cross guided participants among hiking trails till they reached a set of beautiful lakes.
After a picnic lunch, the group moved to the capital city, Andorra La Vella, where participant were given some free time to go shopping, visit or just enjoy the city. Thanks to the collaboration of some volunteers of the Andorra RC, in the afternoon, participants also had the possibility to enjoy some relaxing moments in the thermal centre/spa called Caldea, passing from the indoor lagoon bath to an outdoor Jacuzzi.
At the end of the day, a dinner was offered by the Andorra RC in the restaurant inside the thermal centre. This allowed the group to enjoy a show made of music, water and light games performed in the indoor lagoon.
2.6 Visibility
All information concerning the camp was sent to the Mediterranean National Societies, as well as other components of the Movement and partners.
The outcomes of the activity will be distributed to all participants and partners, as well as to the members of the Steering Committee of the Mediterranean Conference and the members of the Governing Board of the CCM. They will also be available on the CCM website.
Promotional materials have been delivered to participants, such as pins and leaflets of the CCM, t-shirts, mugs and caps specifically produced for Atlantis VIII. Promotional posters of the camp were created and hung in the surrounding 40 premises (see annexes). A video of the activity is currently under edition and will be soon disseminated by the CCM.
A pen drive was delivered to participants at the end of the camp, containing all key documents related to workshops and organisation, as well as a range of the most significant pictures. A facebook group “Atlantis VIII” was created to share pictures and comments between the participants.
All pieces of information concerning Atlantis VIII and its follow-up will be published in the CCM Newsletter, as well as on CCM website (www.cruzroja.es/ccm).
EVALUATION
3.1 Evaluation from the CCM
The 8th edition of the Youth Camp ‘Atlantis’ confirmed the camp to be a good and useful experience as far as its goals are concerned. Moreover, in this occasion it reached the highest number of the Mediterranean National Societies represented with volunteers from 20 different countries: this is for the CCM a real satisfactory result that allowed a larger number of participants, facilitators and staff to deeply understand and boost the force of the Fundamental Principles of the RC/RC Movement and the inner Values related.
Knowing who we are, what we do, and which the principles that guide our action 41 at all levels are, is a first important step to strengthen the action of the youth volunteers' activities in the local communities of our region and to reinforce their role as agents of positive change in our societies full of challenges.
This good result was also possible thanks to the high level of commitment, initiative and enthusiasm that participants showed in all workshops and activities, sharing a powerful sense of teamwork and a positive feeling of friendship, that ensured intercultural dialogue as one of the main assets of the camp.
The collaboration with the Andorran Red Cross was really efficient and enriching. Coupled with the coordination and the meetings between all parties involved, it ensured the very positive outcome of the camp.
The fresh weather and the calm atmosphere of the Andorran location, together with the service provided by the staff of 'the Hotel Del Bisset' gave both participants and facilitators the necessary energy to deal with an intense camp agenda.
Despite that great result, there are a few issues that we would like to underline for the future editions of Atlantis. First of all, as just said, the camp was characterized by an intense agenda made of workshops, sessions and events: as participants commented, the contents of the camp were really interesting and enriching, but at the same time the agenda itself was a bit intense and this probably made participants a little tired and it reduced some of their free time to strengthen friendships. For this reason, for next editions of Atlantis, we will try to organize a more comfortable agenda, ensuring both quality of contents and a balanced timetable.
As for previous editions, this year’s Atlantis was characterized by workshops in English or in French, or in both languages: the language issue was a great challenge, but once again, the result was great and the experience a very 42 enriching one. The language level shown in Atlantis VIII was generally good even if sometimes we had to guarantee some translation in order to let the participants share a successful experience.
Considering that the next edition of the camp will be carried out with the same methodologies, we would like to remind National Societies that a good knowledge of the working language from participants is required, for them to fully express their ideas, feelings, and points of view. For this reason we still appeal to National Societies to always appoint those representatives that best suit the profile, both in language proficiency requirements and commitment to RC/RC principles and values.
We would also like to emphasize that participation in the activities is a key element for a successful outcome of the camp, along with a positive attitude towards interaction with other youth from different cultures, different ways of doing things and the fostering of a friendly atmosphere and mutual understanding: for this edition of the camp, we can affirm that the commitment and the participation to the activities was really good and gave participants the possibility to work hard during the workshops and, at the same time, to enjoy the whole week of the camp.
The high level of participation and the great spirit of initiative also let the volunteers share their best experiences, build partnership and networks with other youth from different backgrounds and strengthen their capacity to carry out youth work with other volunteers and in their own societies, and find ideas for new projects as well as use common tools to develop combined programmes that will benefit the most vulnerable.
3.2 Evaluation from Participants
In order to have participants' feedback on the workshops and the activities carried out, a questionnaire was handed out on the last day. As per the chart below, the results of the questionnaire confirmed 94% of 43 participants' global satisfaction to be excellent or very good, reflecting the fulfilment of their expectations.
0,6% 0,5% Global 4,80%
Excellent 36,2% Good Average Poor NA
57,8%
Participants were asked about each workshop and the logistics. Their opinion is thoroughly outlined in the following sections.
3.2.1 Workshop contents
The workshops included both practical and theoretical activities. Their impact on participants was extremely positive, with a 98% satisfaction rating. Participants found the contents and methods of the sessions to be inspiring.
General Content
1,4%0,4%
37,7% Excellent Good Average
60,5% Poor NA 44
As the chart below shows, the first workshop, dedicated to the issue of Gender and Sustainable Development, was perceived as excellent or good by 90% of the participants.
Gender and Sustainable Development
9,8% 0,4%
Excellent Good 52,4% Average 37,4% Poor
With regards to the evaluation of the workshop on International Humanitarian Law & P&V, 82, 7% of participants rated it as excellent or good, as the chart below demonstrates.
International humanitarian law and P&V 0,6% 16,7%
41,0% Excellent Good Average Poor
41,7%
45
The Leadership Skills workshop received a 96% level of satisfaction rating between excellent and good. This workshop was rated the highest by participants and was singled out by participants as excellent. Attendants felt that they learned a lot from this workshop and appreciated the methodology.
Leadership skills 3,4%0,4% 20,1%
Excellent Good Average Poor
76,1%
As far as the YABC sessions are concerned, they were very appreciated by participants, with 94% of participants rating it as excellent or very good. They considered this workshop to cover a very important topic and expressed a desire to learn more about it.
YABC 4,0% 2,0%
26,2% Excellent Good Average Poor
67,9% 46
The evaluation of the Human Rights and Environment was rated as follows: 91% of the participants evaluated it to be excellent or very good, as shown by the chart below.
Human Rights & Environment
8,8% 49,1%
Excellent Good Average 42,1% Poor
The Migration and Intercultural Dialogue was valued excellent or good by 83% of participants. The methodology of this workshop was well-received by the participants.
Migration and Intercultural Dialogue
3,2% 13,9%
39,3% Excellent Good Average Poor
43,7%
47
3.2.2 Organization and Logistics
With regards to the organization and the logistics of the camp, the percentage of participants who considered it excellent or good was 90%. The chart below shows the general evaluation of the logistics:
1,1% Logistics 8,2% 0,8%
Excellent Good Average 34,8% 55,2% Poor NA
FOLLOW-UP
Through the years Atlantis has become one of the main RC/RC youth achievements in the Mediterranean in terms of intercultural dialogue. Its success depends on the rate of replication of the best practices exchanged and experiences shared. Youth have the potential to be, and are already acting as, agents of behavioural change within their communities. Their work must be reinforced and supported and we hope to uphold those goals through the future editions of the camp.
Hence, on their return to their home countries, participants are expected to meet with their local RC/RC youth coordinators to plan follow up events and the CCM will support them by acting as a mentor to those volunteers who should require 48 assistance in planning such events.
On the other hand, the CCM will encourage contact with participants through a specifically developed web portal. All the topics dealt within Atlantis VIII and its contents and results will be one of the main areas of the Med Youth Port@l – a new tool for young volunteers.
The present report will be distributed among RC/RC and all relevant parties and the best practices shown during Atlantis VIII will be introduced in the CCM’s Collection of Best Practices, a new virtual tool to share information about programmes across the Mediterranean. Participants will be encouraged to regularly send information about new activities issued from the lessons learnt during the Youth Camp. All lessons learnt, together with the comments and evaluations from participants and the feed-back sent by the facilitators will help the organization to focus and improve the activities for the next Atlantis Youth Camp, to be hosted by the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2013.
Centre for the Cooperation in the Mediterranean Barcelona, August 2012
Photographs
ANNEX 1 Final Agenda ATLANTIS VIII
Programme 1st July 2nd July 3rd July 4th July 5th July 6th July 7th July 8th July
7:30 - 8:00 Qi-Gong Qi-Gong Qi-Gong Qi-Gong Qi-Gong Qi-Gong Qi-Gong 8:00 Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast IFRC Strategy on Violence - North Africa A - IHL and A - Human Rights and A -Human Rights and A - IHL and Principles&Values YABC/P&V/Migration focus Principles&Values Environment Environment 9:00 - 11:00 B -Sustainable Development & programme B -Sustainable Development B - Migration and Intercultural B - Migration and Intercultural Gender & Gender Healthy Lifestyle Promotion dialogue dialogue Conclusions/ Final 11:00 - 11:30 Break Break Break Break Break evaluation Participants' A - IHL and A - Human Rights and A - Human Rights and Arrival A - IHL and Principles&Values Principles&Values Club 25 and Blood Environment Environment B -Sustainable Development & 11:30 - 13:00 B -Sustainable Development E B - Migration and Intercultural B - Migration and Intercultural Gender Donation & Gender x dialogue dialogue c 13:00 Lunch and Break Lunch and Break Lunch and Breaku Lunch and Break Lunch and Break r s A - YABC A - YABC i A - Leadership skills A - Leadership skills 14:30 - 15:30 B-Leadership skills B-Leadership skills o B - YABC B - YABC n
15:30 - 16:00 Break Break Break Break Break Raid Cross (special edition with a focus on Refugees) A - YABC A - YABC A - Leadership skills A - Leadership skills 16:00 - 18:00 Opening B-Leadership skills B-Leadership skills B - YABC B - YABC Ceremony - Departures Welcome and Presentation 18:00 - 19:00 sharing of best practices sharing of best practices sharing of best practices sharing of best practices among NNSS among NNSS among NNSS among NNSS
19:00 - 20:00 Break Break Break Break Break
20:00 Dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner
First Aid interactive 21:00 Free time Cultural flea market Free time Free time Terra Game Farewell Party demonstration A: Workshop in French B: Workshop in English With the support of: In the frame of:
ANNEX 2 Participants List Participants List_Mediterranean Atlantis VIII 2012
National Society Name Surname e-mail Facebook
Algerian Red Crescent Mahmoud Ben Sebgag [email protected] mahmoud ben sebgag
Algerian Red Crescent Moulay El Hachemi Bouyacoub [email protected] Bouyacoub Mouley
Andorran Red Cross Francis Yomari Javier Delgado [email protected] Francis Javier
Andorran Red Cross Diana Molina [email protected] Diana Molina
Andorran Red Cross Mireia Cuaresma Sanchez [email protected] Mireia Cuaresma
Andorran Red Cross Andrea Mariscal [email protected] Andrea mariscal
Andorran Red Cross Sara Daniela Batista Barroco [email protected] Sara Batista
Andorran Red Cross Roger Sole Funollet [email protected] Roger sole funollet
Bosnia and Herzegovina Ervin Sehovic [email protected] [email protected] Red Cross Bosnia and Herzegovina Ljiljana Bubic [email protected] Liliana Bubic Red Cross
Croatian Red Cross 87 Martina Hecimovic [email protected] Martina Hecimovic
Croatian Red Cross Kristina Repusic [email protected] Bonnie Parker
Hossameldin Mohamed Egyptian Red Crescent Mohamed Edam Abouelenein [email protected] [email protected] Abouelenein
Egyptian Red Crescent Ali Ahmed Osman Ali [email protected] [email protected]
French Red Cross Bouchra Makhlouf [email protected] BOU BUSH
French Red Cross Emilie Rammaert [email protected] Emilie Rammaert
Italian Red Cross Antonio Guiseppe Di Pietro [email protected] Antonio Giuseppe Di Pietro
Lebanese Red Cross Joelle Skaff [email protected] Joelle Skaff (Zahle, Lebanon)
Lebanese Red Cross Rami Massoud [email protected] Rami Massoud
Libyan Red Crescent Ehab Mohamed Fadhli [email protected] HHOOBBA Libyan Red Crescent Omar Emhemed Farhat [email protected] [email protected]
Malta Red Cross Elaine Bonnici [email protected] Elaine Bonnici
Morroccan Red Crescent Billi Adil [email protected] Billi.adil
Morroccan Red Crescent Sidali Yassine [email protected] [email protected]
Monaco Red Cross Angelique Gancia [email protected] Angelique GANCIA
Monaco Red Cross Lélia Joseph [email protected] Li LOO (andjela)
Montenegro Red Cross Andela Moracanin [email protected] Nana Moracanin
Montenegro Red Cross Biljana Vidakovic [email protected] Biljana Vidakovic
[email protected]; Palestine Red Crescent Akram Nasser Akram Nazeeh Nasser [email protected]
Palestine Red Crescent Ibrahim Owda [email protected] Heem sala
Portuguese Red Cross Miguel Lago [email protected] MIGUE LAGO Red Cross of Serbia Dusan Vostinic [email protected] [email protected]
Red Cross of Serbia Jelena Milic [email protected] JELENA MILIC
Slovenian Red Cross Mateja Starc [email protected] Mateja Starc
Slovenian Red Cross Mateja Kopina [email protected] Mateja Kopina
Spanish Red Cross Sonia Andrés Rojo [email protected] SONIA DE ANDRÉS
Spanish Red Cross Carlos Velasco Botina [email protected] Carlos Velasco
Spanish Red Cross Alejandro Ruiz Moya [email protected] Alejandro Ruiz
Spanish Red Cross Eva Martinez Bonet [email protected] Eva La Hija de la Retalláh
Spanish Red Cross Sara Romero Casas [email protected] Sara Romero
Turkish Red Crescent Salih Tora Benzeyen [email protected] Tora Benzeyen / toratorito
Turkish Red Crescent Arif Tavuz [email protected] Arif Tavuz Facilitadores / Name Surname e-mail Speakers
Andorran red Cross Josep David Pol Pedròs [email protected] [email protected]
Egyptian Red Crescent Tamer Ahmad Abdelfattah [email protected] Tamer Ahmad
Lebanese Red Cross Bassem Kheireddine [email protected] [email protected]
Italian Red Cross Marcello Sgroi [email protected] [email protected]
Spanish Red cross Rocio Saavedra [email protected] [email protected]
Tunisian Red Crescent Manel Meftah [email protected] MANEL MEFTAH
IFRC P&V Reema Chopra [email protected] [email protected]
IFRC P&V Hamzah Zekrya [email protected] Hamzah Zekrya
CCM Stefan Galve [email protected] Stefan Galve
CCM Nour Oughlli [email protected] Nour Oughlli Staff / Volunteers Name Surname e-mail
CCM Enrico Di Lena [email protected] Enrico Ico Di lena
CCM Ariana Potrafki [email protected] Ariana Potrafki
CCM Silvia Piscitelli [email protected] [email protected]
CCM Nour Salameh [email protected] Salamé Nura
CCM Bassam Al Saedy [email protected] [email protected]
CCM Montse Lopez [email protected] Montse Lopez
CCM Isabelle David [email protected] Isabelle David
CCM Jenny Bernstein [email protected] Jenny Bernstein
CCM Nestor Llobet [email protected] Nèstor Llobet Méndez
Andorran Red Cross Yáiza Ortega [email protected] Yáiza Ormg Andorran Red Cross Jessica Villanueva Rodríguez [email protected] jessica villanueva rodríguez
Andorran Red Cross Ana Arce [email protected] ana arce
Andorran Red Cross Gloria Calvente [email protected] mgorya calcom
Andorran Red Cross Kelly Martínez [email protected] kelly jhoana martinez
Andorran Red Cross Diana molina [email protected] diana Molina
Andorran Red Cross Roger Sole [email protected] roger sole funollet
Andorran Red Cross Sara Batista [email protected] saaraa batista
Andorran Red Cross Mireia Cuaresma [email protected] mireia Cuaresma
Andorran Red Cross Francis Yomari Javier [email protected] francis Javier
Andorran Red Cross Miguel Alvarez [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Isabel Castelao [email protected] Andorran Red Cross Delfina Araus [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Judith Batalla [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Jose Ramón Grácia [email protected] Jose ramón gracia agüero
Andorran Red Cross Patty García [email protected] patty Sos
Andorran Red Cross Judith Alvarez [email protected] judith alvarez trullà
Andorran Red Cross Anna Arias [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross David Barceló [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Josep David Pol [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Albert Martín [email protected] martin imatge
Andorran Red Cross Andrea Atre [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Lluís De Juan [email protected] Andorran Red Cross Juanjo Segura [email protected] juanjo segura riuz
Andorran Red Cross Manel Pontes [email protected] Manel Pontes
Andorran Red Cross Jordi Moran [email protected] Jordi Moran
Andorran Red Cross Alex Mata [email protected] alex mata
Andorran Red Cross Ivan Gabriel [email protected]
Andorran Red Cross Roc Duran [email protected] roc duran martinez
Andorran Red Cross Paulo Moreira [email protected] paulo manuel santos moreira
Andorran Red Cross Alfons Codina [email protected]
ANNEX 3 Frameworks contents
MEDITERRANEAN YOUTH CAMP ATLANTIS VIII ‐Youth and Principles and Values‐
L'Aldosa La Massana ‐ Andorra 1st to 8th July 2012
Session: Gender and Sustainable Development, facilitated by Ms. Rocío Saavedra (Spanish Red Cross Youth)
Date: 2nd and 3rd July
Time: From 09:30 to 13:00
Working language: English
Contents and objectives:
The UN Millennium Declaration declares that "Men and women have the right to live their lives and raise their children in dignity, free from hunger and from the fear of violence, oppression or injustice.” This means that man and woman are both equal and both play a vital role in the creation and development of their families in society. However, facts have shown that this statement is not enforced at the same conditions among men and women nor through cultures and societies. As a result, the struggle for legal equality has been one of the major concerns of women’s movement all over the world.
It's known that sustainable development relies on maintaining long‐term economic, social and environmental capital. Yet, even if women represent a great share of the world’s human capital, they are one of its most undervalued resources. As a group, women – and their potential contributions to economic advances, social progress and environmental awareness – have been marginalized. A better use of the world’s female potential could increase economic growth, reduce poverty, enhance societal well‐being, and help ensure sustainable development in all countries.
Gender inequities remain pervasive in many countries of the world. Closing the gender gap depends on enlightened government policies which take gender issues into account. This is surely a public and governmental concern, but it also tied to individual behaviour. At a global level, according to the goal n. 3 of the Millennium Development Goals, the international community is working to promote Gender Equality and Empower Women. From our side, following the aims of the IFRC Strategy 2020, the action of RC/RC volunteers and members contributes to ensure sustainable development through strengthening community resilience and, working proactively in a number of ways, to change social attitudes and reduce the isolation and the neglect experienced by disadvantaged people, as for example women among others.
The objective of this session is to deepen knowledge and raise awareness of young people towards gender equality, its meaning, issues and challenges as well as the consequences that women's role and work can have for a sustainable development as seen from a social, economic, cultural and environmental perspective. Participants will be involved in an interactive session made of activities and dynamics to enhance their awareness on the relation between gender, women's role and societies’ development, in order to let them think about ‐and propose‐ positive actions and projects at a local level to counter such challenges.
Format:
‐ 3 hours and 30 minutes each day for a total of 7 hours ‐ One group of around 25/30 people. ‐ Active participation of the youth ‐ Particular attention to intercultural dialogue ‐ Peer education
Key issues:
‐ Difference between genders ‐ General issues: men, women and gender roles ‐ Gender equality and inequality: opportunities and challenges ‐ Sustainable development: economic, social, environmental elements in a gender perspective ‐ Gender perspective and co‐education
Framework:
United Nations ‐ Millennium Development Goals: GOAL 3: PROMOTE GENDER EQUALITY AND EMPOWER WOMEN (http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/gender.shtml)
Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) Gender and Sustainable Development (paper) (http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/58/1/40881538.pdf)
International Federation of RC/RC National Societies: Strategy 2020 ‐ Strategic Aim 2 and Enabling Actions 2 (http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Publications/general/strategy‐2020.pdf)
MEDITERRANEAN YOUTH CAMP ATLANTIS VIII ‐Youth and Principles and Values‐
L'Aldosa La Massana ‐ Andorra 1st to 8th July 2012
Session: International Humanitarian Law and Principles and Values, facilitated by the Andorran Red Cross
Date: 2nd and 3rd July
Time: From 09:00 to 13:00
Working language: French
Contents and objectives:
Last year, many humanitarian challenges sprung throughout the world. Amongst them, those which have particularly affected ‐and are still affecting‐ the Mediterranean region.
The impact and consequences of conflicts affect human beings at different levels: health, (both physical and psychological), environment, culture, society and relationships. In such a context, human beings need to be protected. One way of doing so is by implementing International humanitarian law (IHL), conceived as a set of rules created for humanitarian reasons which are intended to limit the effects of armed conflict. IHL protects persons affected by armed conflict but who do not ‐ or no longer ‐ participate in combat. It also restricts the means and methods of warfare. IHL is also called "law of war" and "law of armed conflict."
While involved in conflicts and uprising, people also suffer violations in the protection and respect of their rights and values, rights acquired only for the fact of being human beings. For this reason, the action of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, guided by its Seven Fundamental Principles of Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity and Universality, aims to ensure the humanitarian assistance of human beings and to safeguard ‐ at all times ‐ their Values, as the protection of life, health and human dignity; the respect for the human being; non discrimination; mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace among people.
Considering the role and importance that these Principles and Values have in the action and intervention of the RC/RC members, IHL represents a useful legal instrument in order to ensure the protection of these values, above all in times of war.
In this context, Red Cross/Red Crescent Youth volunteers, by applying the above mentioned Principles and Values in their work with communities and vulnerable groups, can raise awareness on IHL and be the catalysts for change in their communities, making a difference in the way people behave towards each other, becoming promoters of a culture of respect for diversity, intercultural dialogue, social inclusion, equality and peace.
The objective of this session is to strengthen knowledge and awareness of young people towards International Humanitarian Law, its basic and principal elements, its relation with human rights and the Principles and Values of the RC/RC Movement. Participants will be involved in an interactive session made of activities and dynamics to enhance their awareness on the relation between IHL, its rules, the Principles and Values and the role of Youth volunteers in order to let them think and propose positive actions and projects at local level to spread knowledge and sensitize their peers and the communities on these topics.
Format:
‐ 3 hours and 30 minutes each day for a total of 7 hours ‐ One group of around 25/30 people. ‐ Active participation of the youth ‐ Particular attention to intercultural dialogue ‐ Peer education
Key issues:
‐ General overview of the elements of the IHL ‐ Difference between International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights ‐ Fundamental Principles and Values ‐ How to raise awareness of IHL and other related issues ‐ Role of Youth in sensitizing on IHL and Principles and values
Framework:
International Committee of Red Cross: http://www.icrc.org/eng/index.jsp
International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law (http://www.ehl.icrc.org/images/resources/pdf/ihl_and_ihrl.pdf)
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC):
The Seven Fundamental Principles and the related Values (http://www.ifrc.org/en/who‐we‐are/vision‐and‐mission/the‐seven‐ fundamental‐principles/)
Strategy 2020 ‐ Strategic Aims and Enabling Actions (http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Publications/general/strategy‐2020.pdf)
MEDITERRANEAN YOUTH CAMP ATLANTIS VIII ‐Youth and Principles and Values‐
L'Aldosa La Massana ‐ Andorra 1st to 8th July 2012
Session: Human Rights and Environment, facilitated by the Enrico Di Lena; Montse López; Silvia Piscitelli (CCM)
Date: 6th and 7th July
Time: From 09:00 to 13:00 ‐ with a break of 30 minutes
Working language: French
Contents and objectives:
The relation between Human Rights and environmental issues, especially as regards water availability and climate change, has been known for years. Several resolutions at international level have raised awareness of how fundamental the environment is as a prerequisite to the enjoyment of human rights. Even so, the consequences that follow, above all climate change effects, are causing humanitarian challenges that need to be highlighted and addressed in a decisive manner.
All over the world, people experience the negative effects of environmental degradation ecosystems decline, including water shortage, fisheries depletion, natural disasters due to deforestation and unsafe management and disposal of toxic and dangerous wastes and products. Indigenous people suffer directly from the degradation of the ecosystems that they rely upon for their livelihoods. Climate change is exacerbating many of these negative effects of environmental degradation on human health and wellbeing and it is also causing new ones, including an increase in extreme weather events and an increase in the spread of malaria and other vector born diseases. These facts clearly show the close links between environment and the enjoyment of human rights, and justify an integrated approach towards both issues.
The impact of these environmental issues also causes humanitarian challenges as regards to population movements which can particularly be perceived in the Mediterranean region. This has fast growing effects for both human beings and societies that can be noted at different levels: health, (both physical and psychological), environment, culture, society and relationships. In such a context, human beings need
to be protected. One way of doing so is by drawing attention to their Human Rights and by applying the RC/RC Principles and Values.
The objective of this session is to strengthen knowledge and awareness of young people towards Human Rights, its basic and principal elements, the relation with environmental issues, such as water access and climate change, as well as the Principles and Values of the RC/RC Movement. Participants will be involved in an interactive session made of activities and dynamics to enhance their awareness on the issue of Human Rights and environmental protection, with special regards to the consequences of climate change and limited access to water. The workshop will also deal with the role of Youth volunteers, guided by RC/RC Principles and Values, in order to let them think and propose positive actions and projects at local level to spread knowledge and sensitize their peers and the communities about these topics.
Format:
‐ 3 hours and 30 minutes each day for a total of 7 hours ‐ One group of about 25 people ‐ Active participation of the youth ‐ Particular attention to intercultural dialogue ‐ Peer education approach
Key issues:
‐ General overview on the Human Rights ‐ Relationship between Human Rights and environmental protection ‐ How environmental issues, such as Climate Change, affect vulnerable groups ‐ How to raise awareness of Human Rights and environmental related issues ‐ Environmental issues as a source of conflict or unity? ‐ Role of Youth in raising awareness on Human Rights and environmental issues
Framework:
United Nations Environment Program:
http://www.unep.org/
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_and_data_reports.sht ml#.T7‐BY8Wcu00
World Health Organization
http://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/humanrights/en/
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC):
The Seven Fundamental Principles and the related Values (http://www.ifrc.org/en/who‐we‐are/vision‐and‐mission/the‐seven‐ fundamental‐principles/)
Strategy 2020 ‐ Strategic Aims and Enabling Actions (http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Publications/general/strategy‐2020.pdf)
Red Cross/Red Crescent Climate Centre
http://www.climatecentre.org/site/home
MEDITERRANEAN YOUTH CAMP ATLANTIS VIII ‐ Youth and Principles and Values ‐
L´Aldosa La Massana – Andorra 1st to 8th July 2012
Session: Migration and Intercultural dialogue – facilitated by Nour Oughly and Stefan Galve (UNESCO Chair of Intercultural Dialogue in the Mediterranean‐ University of Rovira i Virgili,Tarragona, Spain‐; CCM)
Date: 6th and 7th July
Time: From 9:00 to 13:00
Working language: English
Contents and objectives:
More and more people from different cultures are on the move from country to city and from poorer to richer nations all over the world. Causes like poverty, diseases, wars, unemployment, among others, drive men, women, and children to leave their homes in search of a better life and future. Migration is becoming one of the major challenges of the 21st century. Both the migrant person and the community to which a migrant eventually settles are challenged alike.
In order to have complete cooperation and a positive outlook on different cultures, education must be an integrating factor. Many migrants leave their home countries for various reasons in order to find a more productive and successful way of life. Prejudice and Racism can be avoided through knowledge and cooperation between the different cultures and ethnicities.
Respect is developed when people of dissimilar backgrounds find similarities between their cultures and expand their characteristics and personalities into a more ideal and cultured individual. Immigration has become a universal issue and the prejudice brought about by the host countries of irregular migrants does not help solve the matter what so ever. Cooperation must be sought in order to promote understanding and respect between people of different ethnicities and races, knowledge must be gained about what makes cultures unique.
The objective of this session is deepen knowledge and awareness of young people towards social effects and impact of displaced people as migrants, refugees, etc, and which consequences this could have in the community of reception. Participants will be involved in an interactive session made of activities in order to enhance their awareness on the social inclusion of migrants and the role of intercultural dialogue: relevant issues to let them think and propose positive actions to face these challenges and to promote cooperation and understanding between people's diversities.
Format:
‐ 3 hours and 30 minutes each day for a total of 7 hours ‐ One group of 25 people. ‐ Actively participation of the youth ‐ Particular attention to the intercultural dialogue ‐ Peer education approach
Key issues:
‐ Migration and population movement ‐ Talking about diversity and discrimination ‐ Intercultural dialogue and social integration/inclusion
Framework:
International Federation of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies Migrant Rights International Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development: Migration
European Commission ‐ Culture http://ec.europa.eu/culture/our‐programmes‐and‐actions/talking‐about‐diversity_en.htm
MEDITERRANEAN YOUTH CAMP ATLANTIS VIII ‐Youth and Principles and Values‐
L´Aldosa La Massana ‐ Andorra 1st to 8th July 2012
Session: Leadership skills, facilitated by Marcello Sgroi (Italian Red Cross Youth)
Date: 2nd and 3rd, 6th and 7th July
Time: From 14:30 to 18:00, with a break of 30 minutes
Working language: English and French
Contents and objectives:
Leadership is an attitude, is a way to live and think by inspiring oneself and people, making everyone fully responsible of the own decisions and life.
By enhancing the skills of the youth in the areas of leadership, voluntary service, management and communication, participants will learn to use their creative ideas to deliver a great service. Communication tools will be used to emphasize the spirit of team work and to allow the achievement of the results during debriefing sessions.
The training method that will be used is inspired by the theatre of the Oppressed and other techniques implemented in the training of actors. It is highly preferred a non‐ cognitive way of learning based on the body, music and team building.
Creativity will be stimulated as “way of being”. Light clothing is suggested.
The objective of this session is to make everyone fully aware of the way to relate to others, the way to be part of a team, the way to share leadership. Relationship is a key area which every leader should self‐reflect on.
Format:
‐ 3 hours each day for a total of 12 hours: 2 workshops of 6 hours each one ‐ Two groups of around 25 people. One group will participate in one session of two days (6 hours) working in English and then the facilitators will repeat the session the other 2 days for the second group working in French ‐ Particular attention to the intercultural dialogue ‐ Peer education
Key issues:
‐ communication with the youth ‐ peer education ‐ team working ‐ games ‐ exercise from TdO (theatre of the oppressed): ‐ trust games and shared leadership ‐ body awareness and consciousness, non verbal communication, games
Framework:
In FEDNET: https://fednet.ifrc.org/graphics/Fednet_files/Organisational_Development_11/Youth/d ocuments/step‐by‐step‐english.pdf https://fednet.ifrc.org/graphics/Fednet_files/Organisational_Development_11/Skillshar e/Skillshare_2005/David%20Wenner_Overcoming%20the%20barriers%20to%20Nonpro fit_Effectiveness.pdf https://fednet.ifrc.org/sw35751.asp Article IN SEARCH OF GOOD POLITICAL COMMUNICATION AND LEADERSHIP by Jean‐Marc Coicaud https://fednet.ifrc.org/graphics/Fednet_files/NS_dev/LDC/2009/EN/Lunch%20symposiu m%20on%20Leadership%20and%20Management/Prof.%20Adei%20Lecture%20Marks% 20of%20success%20in%20leadership%20and%20management.pdf
Suggested Bibliography:
Paulo Freire: The pedagogy of the oppressed Thomas Gordon: Leader effectiveness Augusto Boal: Theatre of oppressed Enzo Bianchi: Verso un’etica condivisa Enrico Peyretti: Il diritto di non uccidere Anna Chesner: The handbook of drama Therapy Christopher Achenbach: Creative music in group work
MEDITERRANEAN YOUTH CAMP ATLANTIS VIII ‐Youth and Principles and Values ‐
L´Aldosa La Massana ‐ Andorra 1st to 8th July 2012
Session: YABC (Youth as Agents of Behavioural Change), facilitated by Tamer Ahmad (Egyptian Red Crescent, YABC trainer), Manel Meftah (Tunisian Red Crescent) and Bouchra Makhlouf (French Red Cross)
Date: 2nd and 3rd, 6th and 7th July
Time: From 07:30 to 08:00: every day, Qi‐Gong session, and from 14:30 to 18:00: workshop
Working language: English/French
Contents and objectives:
Youth as Agent of Behavioural Change is an initiative of the Principles and Values Department of the IFRC in which 40 NS worldwide have taken an active part to empower youth to play a leading role in transforming mindsets, attitudes and behaviours in their local community. It integrates peer‐education and non‐cognitive learning and uses games, role plays and artistic platforms to promote behavioural change.
In North Africa only, almost 200 youth have embarked upon the project and devoted themselves to work on the Fundamental Principles and their underpinning Humanitarian Values, especially regarding migration issues. As so, they’re applying the YABC initiative on the specific domain of migration, using behavioural change tools to enable youth to take the lead in changing their communities’ perspectives towards migration issues and attitudes towards migrants.
The objective of this session is to spread knowledge and practice of YABC and how we can use this toolkit in our National Societies within our programs with youth in order to make a positive change in our communities.
Format: ‐ Two workshops of 2 days for 3 hours each day, being a total of 6 hours in total ‐ 30 minutes each morning Qi‐Gong session ‐ Two groups of around 25 people. One group will participate to one session of two days (6 hours) working in English and then the facilitators will repeat the session the other 2 days for the second group working in French ‐ Active participation of the youth ‐ Particular attention to the intercultural dialogue ‐ Per education
Framework:
International Federation of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Societies
YABC http://www.ifrc.org/docs/news/speech09/kb220909.asp Principles and Values Department http://www.ifrc.org/what/values/index.asp Annual Report of the Red Cross Red Crescent, YABC section Energy boost video of YABC Red Cross, Red Crescent Youth Declaration
ANNEX 4 Poster
CENTRE FOR THE COOPERATION IN THE MEDITERRANEAN PERMANENT OFFICE OF THE RED CROSS AND RED CRESCENT OF THE MEDITERRANEAN
With the support of:
Av. Portal de l’Angel, 7, 4th, Office J-K, E-08002, Barcelona (Spain) Phone: +34 93 302 15 85
www.cruzroja.es/ccm
Humanity Impartiality Neutrality Independence Voluntary service Unity Universality