Erasmus+ Open Mic! Raising Awareness of Human Rights!

Erasmus + Training Course

Vilnius (Lithuania

From June 7th to 13th, Lithuania became the backdrop for a groundbreaking training course that merged the worlds of comedy and human rights. Approved by the Lithuanian National Agency and funded by the Erasmus+ program, this innovative project brought together 24 youth workers, youth leaders, and human rights activists from six different countries: Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Greece, and Italy. The primary aim was clear yet ambitious: to introduce stand-up comedy writing techniques as a tool for raising awareness about human rights and addressing sensitive topics associated with them. From the moment the project was announced, it sparked considerable interest and curiosity.

Many wondered how comedy, often perceived as pure entertainment, could be harnessed to discuss serious human rights issues. Others questioned the teachability of comedy, usually viewed as an innate talent rather than a skill. However, the project demonstrated that comedy can indeed be learned and effectively used as a powerful medium for conveying important messages. Throughout the week, participants engaged in a variety of creative exercises focused on comedy writing and storytelling. Role plays, group brainstorming sessions and simulation games were pivotal in helping them grasp the multifaceted nature of fundamental human rights topics. Combining human rights with comedy was quite a challenge.

Participants sometimes struggled to find their comedic voice. Still, the project’s emphasis on non-formal education, alongside a challenging yet engaging theoretical approach to human rights and comedy writing techniques, empowered them to craft impactful messages. One of the highlights of the training was the involvement of Paulius Ambrazevičius, a father of the Lithuanian comedy scene. His presence and expertise provided invaluable insights, tips, and encouragement, helping participants understand that comedy while entertaining, is a serious craft that can drive meaningful dialogue. The culmination of the project was the much-anticipated 'Erasmus+ Open Mic!' event in Vilnius on June 12th. Here, participants showcased their newfound skills, performing stand-up routines centered on human rights. For some, it was their first time holding a microphone; for others, it was a challenging yet rewarding experience to write jokes about sensitive subjects.

The evening was a resounding success, proving that comedy can indeed be a potent tool for discussing taboo and sensitive topics. The project’s impact extends beyond the week in Lithuania. Each national team is now tasked with organizing workshops, public events, and open mic sessions in their respective countries to share the knowledge and skills gained. This ongoing effort ensures that the benefits of the project reach local communities, participants colleagues, and young people, perpetuating the Erasmus+ spirit of cross-cultural learning and dissemination. Designed, organized, and hosted by Loud&Clear, a forward-thinking Lithuanian organization dedicated to innovative youth learning experiences, this project stands as a testament to the transformative power of blending comedy with human rights advocacy. By demonstrating that humor can effectively tackle serious issues, the project has set a solid ground for future initiatives aimed at using creative methods to address global challenges.