Summary
The “Break the Glass Ceiling” project aims to enhance the quality of youth services — particularly volunteering projects under the European Solidarity Corps — by focusing on the empowerment of young women. This goal is pursued through comprehensive research, the publication and dissemination of findings, and the sharing of methods and best practices that promote empowerment.
The project focuses on researching the effectiveness of youth volunteering projects from a female perspective, addressing efficiency gaps within the sector. It will produce a results-based methodological manual and a collection of good practices to guide stakeholders. Dissemination efforts aim to reach over 4,000 experts through events and direct outreach, ensuring the widespread adoption of the project’s methods. Key outputs include four research plans and reports, as well as a comprehensive guidance publication designed to improve youth services.
Aligned with the priorities of Erasmus+, the project supports high-quality youth work by addressing the needs of young women. The project’s outcomes will strengthen the recognition and effectiveness of youth work by providing evidence-based insights and practical tools that organizations and youth workers can use to improve their services. In addition, the project’s extensive dissemination efforts will further promote the recognition and international dimension of youth work.
The importance of this project is underscored by resolutions of the European Parliament and the European Commission, which highlight the need to enhance the social inclusion and labor market participation of young women. The “Break the Glass Ceiling” project is closely aligned with the goals and priorities of the Erasmus+ programme, the European Youth Policy objectives, and the EU Gender Equality Strategy. Together, these frameworks emphasize equal treatment, mainstreaming gender equality across all areas, and implementing targeted measures to empower women.
