Almost a year ago, the Arab Spring, inspired by the youth, was spreading throughout the Middle East North Africa. (MENA) Young and old, men and women took to the streets to call for democracy, justice and freedom. Activists, NGOʼs, Youth organizations and councils played and continue to play an instrumental role in this democratic transition. With the help of technology, local and international networks were formed and strengthened. By sharing experiences, best practices and inspiring new models of democratic participation, youth serving organizations in their respective communities and contexts are laying the foundation for a democratic future.

The Democratic Exchange Forum (DXF-SWE) is an intercultural exchange forum for young social innovators, opinion makers, project managers, youth leaders and agents of change who wish to strengthen democratic participation, increase civic engagement, and share the human rights perspective amongst the ʻYOUTHʼ in their respective communities. The exchange forum will invite participants from Malmö, Sweden and selected countries in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region who are actively working to enhance democratic participation in their respective communities.

Objectives: The aim of the DXF-SWE is to inspire new models of democratic participation for the youth and build a better foundation for civic engagement. The inter-cultural exchange will lay the foundation for collaborations, dialogue, mutual understanding and knowledge- sharing among its participants. The focus will be upon effective project management and leadership in democratic transitions.

Forum Theme: - Tools for Democracy - Gender and Democratization - Culture and Arts for Change

We are looking for 20 ʻchange makersʼ from Malmö between the ages of 18-30 who, through their organization – formal or informal - are currently involved in youth democratic participation or in enhancing a democratic culture amongst youth through arts and culture, media politics or social innovation. Applications will also be considered from those who wish to initiate a project on a relevant theme. The cost for the DXF-SWE is covered.

You are expected to attend all four days of the forum (March 5-9th, 2012) and also attend the Open Space conference on February 7th, 2012 at Moriska Paviljongen, Malmö (14.00 – 20.00)

Please note that English will be language of the communication throughout the conference. We look forward to receiving your application!

To Apply: Kindly fill out the attached form, send a short bio and photo as soon as possible or by Thursday February 2, 2012 at the latest to the Hussain@reorient.se.

If you have any questions, please contact: Hussain H. Kabani Project Leader DXF-SWE M | +46 (0) 737799939 TWITTER | H2K10 E MAIL | Hussain@reorient.se