The Memorandum of Understanding highlights the shared values of the two organisations and creates the framework for close cooperation at both national and international levels, to the benefit of young people.

EYCA and Hostelling International are committed to working together in order to:

• Encourage the mobility and education of young people, by providing opportunities for educational and affordable ways to travel.
• Empower young people to grow personally and professionally by supporting participation in youth focused projects and initiatives.
• Promote sustainable tourism initiatives and activities for young people to be mobile in a positive and responsible manner, striving to support the needs and interests of destinations, host communities and the environment.
• Reinforce the appreciation and inclusivity of different cultures, and encouraging youth to be more socially and culturally aware.
  In 2018, both EYCA and Hostelling International member organisations will team up for various projects that further these values among young people in Europe and beyond.

Manel Sanchez, EYCA Director, said:

“Here at EYCA, we’re firm believers in the power of travel to transform lives and expand horizons. Since there is great overlap and compatibility between our mission and that of Hostelling International, it’s only natural to want to work together and create new and better opportunities for young people to travel, have amazing experiences and a positive impact on the communities they visit. We’re looking forward to developing many joint projects in every country in our networks and at the international level to make this happen.”

Darren Barker, Hostelling International CEO, said: “We are delighted to work with EYCA, whose commitment to youth empowerment aligns with our goal to facilitate inter-cultural exchange through hostelling. With several of our National Associations already partnered with them, we are confident that our collaboration will further our ambitions for young people to make an impact when travelling the world.

About EYCA

The European Youth Card Association (EYCA) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit association of 38 member organisations that issue the European Youth Card to 7 million young people in 36 countries across Europe.

Our mission is to encourage more young people to be socially, culturally, educationally, and economically mobile by delivering quality European Youth Card services and by contributing to better youth policy. We do this to achieve our vision of a Europe where all young people are mobile and active.

About Hostelling International

Hostelling International (HI) is a worldwide network of not-for-profit youth hostel associations, providing a network of unique affordable accommodation across the world in more than 80 countries. Established in 1932, HI is one of the world’s largest international membership organisations and was founded on an enduring belief in the power of travel to foster a deeper understanding of people, places, and the world around us. Our commitment is to promote a dynamic community of young global citizens, with more than 3.7 million members who wish to actively make the world a better place.

Please visit our website for further information about HI www.hihostels.com.