A ticket to freedom: Travel across Europe for free
St. Pölten – A dream is coming true for 139 young people from Lower Austria! In the thirteenth round of the popular initiative 'Discover EU', they were given the unique opportunity to travel the countries of the European Union by train for free. This initiative, which has been generating enthusiasm since its launch in 2018, is an important step in bringing European identity closer to young people and conveying the values of the EU to them.
The success story of 'Discover EU'
The 'Discover EU' initiative is part of a larger programme of the European Union that aims to give young people aged 18 to 20 the chance to discover Europe. What began as a small pilot phase has now developed into one of the EU's most prominent projects. Demand is enormous: out of almost 250,000 applicants across Europe, more than 40,000 young people were able to enjoy a free Interrail ticket.
Interest was also high in Austria. Out of 7,058 applications, 798 winners were selected. Particularly noteworthy is the performance of young people from Lower Austria, who account for a considerable share of the Austrian winners with 139 tickets. Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner is proud of the young winners and emphasizes the importance of this opportunity for European integration.
Why Interrail? The benefits at a glance
- Strengthening European identity:By traveling, young people get to know Europe's diversity and shared values.
- Environmentally friendly travel:The train is one of the most environmentally friendly modes of travel, which aligns with the EU's commitment to sustainability.
- Personal development:Travel promotes independence and understanding of other cultures.
Historical background
The Interrail ticket was first introduced in 1972 and was originally an offer for young people under 21. The aim was to promote mobility and facilitate cultural exchange. Since then the ticket has undergone many changes and is now available to people of all ages. The 'Discover EU' initiative builds on this tradition and offers young people an experiential journey through Europe.
The impact on youth in Lower Austria
For young people in Lower Austria, the Interrail ticket means not just a trip but a chance to shape their own future. Many of them come from rural areas where international experience is rare. Through the journey they broaden their horizons and collect valuable experiences they can use in their future lives.
Comparisons with other federal states
Compared with other federal states, the willingness to take part in Lower Austria is particularly high. Reasons for this might include targeted support from the state and the high mobility readiness of young people. While in Vienna, for example, the focus is more on urban projects, young people in Lower Austria opt for international experiences.
A look into the future
The next application round for the Interrail tickets is expected in spring 2026. Experts assume demand will continue to rise. The EU plans to increase the number of available tickets and further expand the programme. For Lower Austria this means that even more young people can benefit from this unique opportunity.
Expert opinions
Education experts praise the initiative as an important contribution to the personal and professional development of young people. 'Interrail not only offers the chance to discover Europe, but also to develop personally. These experiences are priceless and shape the participants in a lasting way,' explains Dr. Maria Berger, a renowned education expert.
Political context
The 'Discover EU' programme is part of the European Union's youth strategy, which aims to promote mobility and exchange among young people. Support from the EU shows how important it is to involve young generations in the integration process and give them a voice.
Conclusion
The awarding of the free Interrail tickets is a great success for young people in Lower Austria and an important step in promoting European unity. The enthusiasm of young people shows that Europe is for them not just a geographical term but a community in which they live and which they want to help shape. The upcoming application round promises more exciting experiences and unforgettable journeys across Europe.
