The SURVIVE project, funded by the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme (CERV) of the European Union, aims to highlight the stories of women and children in four partner countries – Italy, Poland, Romania, and Latvia – during World War II, emphasizing their fundamental contribution to resistance movements and post-war reconstruction.
During the conflict, women played a crucial role in resistance movements, factory work, and supporting families in extremely difficult conditions. Their experiences, along with those of children, are essential for understanding the resilience that still represents a fundamental resource in the fight for rights and dignity in conflict zones today.
A central aspect of SURVIVE is its focus on the stories of children, often ignored or forgotten. During World War II, many children were displaced, separated from their families, and forced to live through traumatic experiences that marked them for life. These stories, which rarely find space in historical narratives, are crucial for a complete understanding of the conflict and its devastating consequences. The project aims to give a voice to these young witnesses, restoring their dignity and contributing to the preservation of historical memory.
SURVIVE is particularly aimed at young people, especially secondary school students, using innovative methods such as Human Library sessions, urban trekking, and interactive workshops in the cities of Bologna, Wrocław, Brașov, and Rēzekne. These activities aim to foster a deep understanding of history and its contemporary relevance, bridging the awareness gap regarding the experiences of women and children during World War II.
The project also includes memory conservation activities, such as 3D scanning of historical artifacts, with the goal of preserving these stories, creating interactive educational resources, and raising public awareness about the lasting impact of the war.
SURVIVE reminds us of the importance of not forgetting our shared history and honoring the resilience of women and children during the conflict. By focusing on their contribution, the project reaffirms the European Union’s commitment to democracy, peace, and human rights, strengthening European identity and ensuring that these lessons can inspire future generations.
Here you can read the results of the project’s events in the form of the Event Description Sheet:
SURVIVE – EDS WP3 Training, Commemoration and Cultural Preservation, Romania
SURVIVE – EDS WP4 Training, Commemoration and Cultural Preservation, Latvia