The 2nd B40 Youth Summit held in the capital of Greece, Athens, brought together youth representatives from 20 different cities of 10 countries from November 20th to 22nd, 2023. The summit was organized for the purpose of sharing experiences among young leaders and discussing their potential projects for the future.

The first day of the summit commenced with the welcome program held at the Athens City Hall. During this event, young city representatives had the opportunity to meet each other. The program also included a speech by Mr. Barbaros Büyüksağnak, the Permanent Secretary of B40, who expressed gratitude to the supporters of the event.

The second day of the summit began with a visit by the representatives to the New Waste Transfer Station of the Athens Municipality. In the station, they gained insights into the municipality’s recycling processes. Following this, various speakers addressed the young representatives at sessions held at the Serafio Athletic and Community Complex.

Andreas Botas, the Account Technology Strategist at Microsoft, delivered a presentation on artificial intelligence initiatives, while journalist-author Nikos Efstathiou discussed the historical and cultural structure of the Balkans. Deputy Mayor Katerina Gagaki of Athens Municipality discussed the effects of socio-economic crises on social solidarity. Serafina Avramidou, Director of Animal Welfare, conveyed measures concerning animal rights, and Fotini Leobilla, Advisor to the Mayor of Athens, presented on combating drug abuse.

Throughout the summit, various presentations and sessions were organized, interviews were conducted during lunch breaks, and interactive games were arranged. On the final day of the summit, tickets for an optional visit to the Acropolis Museum were provided to the young representatives.

This event contributed to fostering a stronger culture of cooperation and solidarity among Balkan cities by offering opportunities for experience and idea exchange among young people.