One of the main goals of the responsible people behind the IYM since its beginning was educating about the history of the concentration camp Dachau and the system of National Socialism. Another focus lies in the debate about actual developments and their connections to the past. The International Youth Meeting should strengthen living peaceful together, international understanding and contribute to keeping human rights. Traditionally a special concern of the Youth Meeting was and is to engage in the memory work of Dachau and the Youth Guest House and particularly keep the legacy and the related task of the eyewitnesses in an appropriate way. The motto of IYM dates from 1987 but is still up to date: remember – connect – understand – shape the future.

Remember

Explore historical sites, listen to eyewitnesses, and engage in workshops

Apart from the Concentration Camp Memorial Site Dachau you’ll visit other important historical sites. You’ll be able listen to the personal experiences from eyewitnesses or their descendants and have conversations with them. In workshops you’ll deal with the history of the National Socialist dictatorship in view of current developments. You’ll also have the opportunity to process the topics in a creative way.

Connect

Meet young people from various countries

During the IYM you’ll meet people from many different countries the same age as you, who are interested in history and willing to make a difference. The intensive exchange leads to new perspectives, and you’ll learn to view historic events from different angles.

Understand

Experience history on eye level

You’ll take part in workshops that are conceptualized and carried out by an international team of young people. The use of interactive methods enables you to engage on eye level with the team.

Shape the future

Make new bonds and spread the message

While being at the IYM you’ll meet young people with very different perspectives and backgrounds. This requires curiosity, tolerance, and openness. We wish for these experiences to be passed on to the participants home countries and new bonds to be kept up across borders and time.

Many of our participants leave the IYM with a feeling of having made a crucial experience as well as a contribution to a more peaceful world. In addition nearly everyone takes long-lasting, cross-border friendships back home. Most keep their time at the IYM in their memories forever – if they don't decide straight away to come again next year.

“The entire program is being organized by the teamers, who are just a bit older than me. You can discuss in a different way and history here is different to school.“ – Ferran from Barcelona/Spain

“I can’t compare one day to another, since every day brings something new and something to remember. The whole two weeks are, for me, the best part of the summer holidays.” – Klaudia from Oświęcim/Poland

“The IYMD is an incredible chance to get to know more about the period of National Socialism in Germany and to re-live the scenes as they happened by visiting the historical sites and talking to eye-witness. For me it is important to have a remembrance of these happenings.” – Mohammed Anes from Batna/Algeria

Feel like taking part in this year’s IYM? You can find all information on how to participate in the IYM on the next page. We’re looking forward to your online-application.

Details & Registration