The Stiftung
The Foundation Deutsch-Russischer Jugendaustausch (DRJA) was founded in 2006 to promote and coordinate youth and student exchanges between Germany and Russia. This initiative is based on the government agreement between the Federal Republic of Germany and the Russian Federation on youth policy cooperation from December 2004.
The main mission of the Foundation DRJA is to promote the German-Russian student and youth exchange and to give it new impulses. Despite the current challenges posed by Russia's attack on Ukraine, the foundation focuses on maintaining contacts with independent social organizations in Russia and preparing a basis for youth exchange in post-war times. The values of the foundation include promoting international understanding, cultural exchange, and strengthening civil society structures.
The Foundation DRJA targets schools and providers/organizations of extracurricular youth work. Its activities aim to involve both German and Russian youth and young adults in the exchange process.
The foundation works to build long-term relationships between German and Russian organizations to promote civil society dialogue and international understanding. By supporting independent organizations in Russia, the foundation helps strengthen civil society infrastructure and create a basis for future exchanges.
The Foundation DRJA is supported by prominent partners, including the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, the Robert Bosch Foundation, and the Eastern Committee of German Business. These partnerships enable the foundation to effectively pursue its goals and finance and coordinate its work on a broad basis.
The Foundation DRJA plays a central role in promoting international understanding and civil society cooperation between Germany and Russia, even under the current challenging conditions. Through its diverse activities and services, the foundation contributes to shaping a sustainable and peaceful future for youth.
