Romania

A country transformed, opportunities still evolving

Romania has undergone profound social, economic and technological transformation over recent decades. As an EU member state, it offers a different context from Fondation Botnar’s other focus countries. Yet significant inequalities remain in the opportunities available to children and young people. Romania’s digital and economic development is creating new opportunities for young people to learn, connect, and shape their futures. Our relationship with Romania reaches back to the origins of Fondation Botnar’s founders, adding a longstanding connection to our engagement today.

Challenges

Supporting the city in its efforts to center more focus on young people wellbeing

Cluj-Napoca is growing and changing rapidly, creating new possibilities as well as new pressures. Mental health, social connection and meaningful participation are increasingly important for young people. Our support to the city in its effort to strengthen trustful relations between public institutions, civil society, academia, and other actors across the city remains important for enabling better collaboration and coordination around shared priorities.

Cities

A long-term commitment to Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca has been at the centre of Fondation Botnar’s work in Romania since 2020. Through OurCluj (Cluj for Youth), young people, the municipality, universities and civil society organisations have developed new forms of collaboration and enabled space for young people's participation. Our aim is to deepen this work over time, strengthen relationships, and support collaboration and learning within the city.

A city where young people help define priorities and shape collective action.

Approach

A different context, a focused role

Romania is our only focus country among high-income EU member states. European investment supports many areas, including education and skills. Fondation Botnar therefore concentrates its engagement at the city and municipal level, complementing wider efforts while focusing on areas where our experience and long-term partnerships can add value.