We are Ready!

1 May - a day when ten countries become part of the united Europe. But how do young people in the candidate countries see this day, what are their hopes, fears and aspirations? We invited a group of youngsters from Liepaja city and District, and asked them to express their vision of their future in the European Union.

Liepaja is an internationally active city, and it can be felt also in the attitude of participants of the discussion. They see the upcoming European enlargement as a natural process and do not believe the 1 May to be a great frontier - they already have felt as an integral part of Europe. They would like to use the opportunities provided by the EU mainly for their education as there are certain study programmes not available in Latvia.

The participants of our discussion do not agree that young people would start to leave Latvia. Yes, they would like to see other countries; yes, they would like to study, but - they want to return to their country and participate in its development using their skills and knowledge. Another factor erasing geographical borders is the development of information technologies allowing working for international companies from your home in Latvian countryside. How about those, who will not have EU citizenship? Oleg and Artyom represent the Euro Club from a Russian language school. It is interesting that this Euro Club is one of the oldest pro-European organisations in Liepaja. Boys say that, although there are some concerns, the EU will provide possibilities for all people regardless of nationality, age, gender or citizenship. Also, with the opening of borders representatives of many new nationalities will come to Latvia and bring the local population even closer together. Young people see assets of Latvia - unique cultural heritage, nature and intellectual potential of people. There are also several spheres of economy where Latvia could be successful - for example, bio-production. Liepaja is known as a textile and lingerie producing city, and international fairs have proven that local production is competitive also in the European market.

Active young people believe that Latvians do not expect anything for free - they are ready to study and work hard in order to improve their life, as well as to contribute to development of the whole Europe. So, Europe, get ready for young and active people with innovative ideas being glad to return to the family!