EU Announces New Policies to Integrate Youth Perspectives in Decision-Making for 2024
As we kick off 2024, the European Union is taking steps to ensure that the voice of its youth is not only heard, but also becomes an integral in shaping policies for a better future. Building on the momentum of the 2022 European Year of Youth, the Commission has unveiled a series of actions to give young people a more prominent role in decision-making processes when it comes to policy-making. Here's what you need to know!
Implementing the 'Youth Check' in Policy Design
A key initiative by the Commission is the introduction of a 'youth check' in its policy-making. This means that the potential impact of all new EU policies on young people will be considered. According to the Commission, this approach ensures that the concerns and perspectives of the younger generation are factored into the legislative process, creating more inclusive policies representative of the diverse population of Europe.
Enhanced Dialogue with Young Europeans
Furthermore, the Commission has committed to increasing its engagement with young people. The EU aims to bridge the gap between policy-makers and the youth by facilitating more frequent interactions between Commissioners and young citizens. I believe that this type of enhanced dialogue is crucial for understanding young Europeans' current and future needs and incorporating their insights into developing relevant and effective policies.
Addressing Key Concerns of the Youth
The Commission explains that their actions are tailored to address areas of significant concern for young people. This includes health and wellbeing, environment and climate change, education and training, international cooperation and European values, and employment and inclusion. Initiatives such as developing guidelines for wellbeing in schools and expanding volunteering opportunities will also be considered as needs of young people across the EU.
2024 European Youth Week: Fostering Democratic Participation
A landmark event for this new approach will be the 2024 European Youth Week, scheduled from 12 to 19 April, just before the European elections. According to the Commission, this event will focus on encouraging democratic participation among the youth. Through a series of activities across Europe, the event hopes to engage young people in the electoral process and underline the importance of their involvement in shaping the democratic future of the continent.
Building on a Legacy of Youth Empowerment
I am excited about these newly announced actions, as our cities' youths are also our cities' futures. As previously discussed on this blog, the EU has a longstanding commitment to empowering its younger generation. Just think of programs like Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. The insights gathered from the 13,000 activities during the European Year of Youth, organised by over 2,700 stakeholders, for example, have been instrumental in shaping these new initiatives.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Europe's Youth
As European cities continue to evolve, the active participation of young people in shaping policies ensures that the future of Europe is moulded by those who will inherit it. The Commission's commitment to listening to and involving young people marks an important shift towards a more inclusive and dynamic approach to governance. By embedding youth perspectives into the fabric of policy-making, the EU is setting a precedent for other global regions to follow. I hope this will make way for the voices of the youth to be heard, as they are pivotal in building a more resilient, sustainable, and vibrant Europe.
