The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has launched its 2013 Video Challenge: “Europe Past Forward”.

Young people between18-30 have the opportunity to send us a 30 second to 1 minute video on their views of Europe.

This year, the EU has identified 2013 as the “European Year of Citizens” and in this context this year’s Video Challenge is dedicated to European Citizens.

More specifically, what do young people think their rights are? Their needs? Their expectations? What about democracy, freedom and exchange? How can they contribute and share?

By participating in this video challenge, students will have the opportunity to gain international prestige and showcase their artistic talent and creativity. The EESC actively supports youth participation and expression and apart from visibility also offers prizes for the three winning videos: 5000, 3000, and 2000 euros.

Last year the challenge was extremely successful and we received a wide range of videos from all across Europe. This Video Challenge encourages open interaction and youth participation throughout the 27 member states of Europe and Croatia (joining the EU in 2013).

The challenge is now open for submissions and will close on January 20th 2013. Following this, an online public voting will take place between January 25th 2013 and February 4th 2013. Final selection will be made by a jury of experts, who will also provide valuable feedback.

Specific details of this challenge can be found on the Facebook page and official website:
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/pages/EESC-Video-Challenge
Website: www.eesc.europa.eu/video-challenge