Meeting in Austria

Democracy in Practice – Communication and Participation

23rd – 26th February 2026 – Hollabrunn and Vienna, Austria

The first international meeting of the V4 Democracy in Action project began in Vienna, where students from Prostějov and Bratislava joined their Austrian partners. The first day focused on democracy and international cooperation. After the initial introductions and the formation of international teams, the students visited the Austrian Parliament, where they learned about its history and explored how democratic principles work in practice. In the afternoon, they took part in a simulation of a European Parliament session at the European Parliament Liaison Office in Austria.

On the second day, the programme moved to Hollabrunn, a town in Lower Austria and the home of our partner school, HLW Hollabrunn. The day began with a fantastic student performance of the musical Hair, which impressed everyone with its energy and the talent of the young performers. After lunch in the school cafeteria, the students toured the school and worked together in international teams. They compared the Czech Republic, Austria and Slovakia, identified similarities and differences between the three countries, and shared their experiences. There was also time for informal conversations and building new friendships.

The third day was dedicated to workshops, competitions and team-building activities. Working in international groups, the students developed their language, communication and teamwork skills. One of the highlights was a competitive rally through the streets of Hollabrunn, where participants completed various tasks and explored the town in an entertaining way. The day ended in Vienna with a visit to the famous Hundertwasserhaus, which fascinated everyone with its vibrant colours, originality and unique architecture.

The final day began with a guided tour of the United Nations headquarters at the Vienna International Centre. The students explored the facilities and learned about the organisation's history and the important role it plays as an international institution. The visit was followed by a certificate ceremony and an exchange of small gifts, before everyone said a warm goodbye to the Austrian students and teachers. There was also some time for shopping and enjoying the last moments together before heading home.

The V4 Democracy in Action project provided our students with valuable insights into democracy, European institutions and international cooperation. It also gave them the opportunity to practise their foreign language skills, discover a new environment and build friendships with students from neighbouring countries. They returned home with unforgettable memories, new experiences and inspiration that will stay with them for a long time.

Agenda