Why Anti-Racist Practices Matter in Youth Work

Racism isn’t a thing of the past in Europe; it continues to shape opportunity, belonging, and participation.

According to a 2024 report by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights, nearly 1 in 5 people from minority backgrounds in the EU have experienced racist harassment or violence in the last five years. Discrimination remains a daily reality–from subtle bias to systemic exclusion–impacting how young people learn, work, and express identity.

In this context, anti-racist practices are not optional ideals. They’re essential tools for building equitable, thriving societies.

Research from the OECD and Human Rights Watch shows that organisations that embed anti-racist principles through inclusive language, bias awareness, and accountability, report stronger community trust and participation. The impact isn’t limited to one sector: inclusive schools, workplaces, and youth programmes show measurable improvements in retention, engagement, and wellbeing.

"...anti-racist practice means moving beyond symbolic gestures."

At its core, anti-racist practice means moving beyond symbolic gestures. It requires reflection, education, and sustained action, understanding how power operates, whose voices are centred, and what structures must change.

Youth workers occupy a unique position in this transformation. They see the effects of discrimination first-hand and can create environments where diversity isn’t just accepted but celebrated. Through workshops, mentoring, and dialogue, they help young people navigate identity, challenge stereotypes, and build empathy across differences.

Their role goes beyond reacting to incidents. Youth workers can potentially prevent bias before it takes root, fostering belonging, and modelling fairness in every interaction. When youth workers are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to act against racism, the ripple effects reach entire communities.

To strengthen this mission, ONDE will host “Beyond Bias: Embracing Anti-Racist Practices,” a 7-day Erasmus+ training course bringing together youth workers and young leaders from eight European countries.

The project will:

• deepen understanding of racism and bias

• develop practical tools for inclusive youth work

• empower participants to engage young people in advocacy

• build networks for lasting anti-racist collaboration

By investing in these skills, “Beyond Bias” aligns with the EU Youth Goals and the European Commission’s Action Plan Against Racism 2020–2025, a recognition that equality depends not just on policy, but on people equipped to live its values.

Preparing youth workers to lead with empathy, awareness, and courage is both timely and necessary. “Beyond Bias” is ONDE’s commitment to that vision, helping build a Europe where every young person feels seen, safe, and empowered to belong.

---

The "Beyond Bias: Embracing Anti-Racist Practices" training course will take place November 18-26, 2025 in Lecce, Italy. It is coordinated by Officina Nuova Dimensione Europea (ONDE) APS and co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union with support from Agenzia Italiana per la Gioventù. This article reflects the views only of ONDE, and neither the European Union nor the Agenzia Italiana per la Gioventù can be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained herein.