Understanding Youth Participation Dynamics in Sustainable Development Programs: A Mechanism-Based Perspective

Abstract

Abstract

This qualitative single-case study examines a placement under the European Solidarity Corps, a programme of the European Union for cross-border youth volunteering and solidarity projects, implemented by the non-governmental organisation OpenSpace Foundation in Bulgaria. Semi-structured interviews with organisational leads and volunteers were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Entry was commonly animated by altruistic commitments and the prospect of skills development. Continued engagement depended less on initial motives than on a supportive team environment characterised by reliable mentoring, inclusive peer relations and clear communication. Barriers centred on linguistic and cross-cultural communication challenges, while wider participation was constrained by limited programme visibility and personal financial pressures. From these insights, we advance a mechanism-based model that links the stages of access, entry, experience, and outcomes, yielding testable propositions. The model posits that entry motivations increase joining, while access barriers reduce it. Team climate and leadership raise retention both directly and by enabling interesting projects as a mediating path. Experienced challenges lower perceived fit and pull volunteers toward exit, while a strong team climate weakens this negative path as a moderator. Finally, longer retention is linked to greater skill gains and an increased intention to pursue sustainable volunteering.

Keywords: Youth volunteering, sustainable development, volunteer motivations, retention, barriers.