20/05/2015 (Agence Europe) - Council recognises importance of youth work. On Monday 18 May, the Youth Council adopted conclusions on strengthening youth work to ensure cohesive societies. The conclusions highlight the contribution of youth work to personal development, social inclusion, cultural diversity and active citizenship. They also underline that these values are at the core of European democracies and should be promoted and supported outside formal educational structures. The Council also adopted conclusions on enhancing cross-sectoral policy cooperation in order effectively to address the socio-economic challenges facing young people. Cross-sectoral cooperation is part of the three priority principles set out in the recently-adopted EU work plan for youth for 2014-2015. (IL)