SOCIAL MEDIA LEADERSHIP INCUBATOR FOR DANUBE REGION

Recently, the most remote rural communities in the Danube River region (DR) have experienced drastic levels of emigration and, consequently, a brain drain. They are facing an aging population, difficulties in retaining young people, and attracting new residents. The growing demographic changes are widening the gap between urban and rural areas, making it crucial to address the key challenges faced by rural regions. In addition, digitalization is dramatically changing the way of life. Information and communication technologies (ICT) provide individuals with access to information, communication, and remote work, while transforming the media landscape, where the role of social media is rapidly growing. This leads to greater diversity in information sources and allows citizens to actively participate in public communication. Since 2008, Europe has been facing ongoing crises that have significantly impacted the social, economic, and political lives of its residents. Dissatisfaction is often reflected on social media, where a large amount of misinformation has also emerged. The Danube region is no exception to these trends. To contribute to strengthening institutional capacities for territorial and macro-regional governance (DTP SO4.2), it is essential to involve (young) people in public dialogue (EUSDR PA10, action 7, goal 7.1). Moreover, media communication skills are an integral part of civic competencies (PA9) necessary for sustainable democracy. The proposed SMILE Incubator project recognizes the urgency of action and aims to empower young people from rural areas by providing essential knowledge, skills, and tools. Through targeted campaigns and initiatives, the project seeks to reverse current trends and provide young people with the necessary resources to succeed in their local environment. In this way, the project promotes sustainable development and resilience of communities that need active and innovative political leaders to encourage investments in human capital, motivation, and creativity.