On Monday 21 October, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) published a study on the participation of young people in political and decision-making processes.
Through an analysis of best practices, the EESC proposes concrete recommendations to strengthen this participation within its own bodies as well as in other EU institutions.
The study is based on four case studies: the Klaipèda Local Youth Council (Lithuania), the Austrian National Youth Council, the Council of Europe’s co-management system and the OECD’s Youthwise initiative.
These examples show how a variety of models enable young people to influence political decisions.
The Austrian National Youth Council represents over 3 million young people thanks to a strong legal framework and inclusive mechanisms.
Similarly, the Klaipèda Local Youth Council, with 14 members, including seven elected young people, demonstrates the effectiveness of co-management between young people and local authorities.
However, despite positive initiatives, the study highlights recurring obstacles, such as the lack of financial and human resources, and the failure to recognise the specific needs of young people, particularly in terms of inclusiveness and intersectionality.
The report recommends structured, rather than token, participation, as well as better allocation of resources and training for young people to ensure their long-term involvement.
Lastly, the EESC calls for young people to be fully involved in decision-making, in order to strengthen participatory democracy.
To read the report, go to https://aeur.eu/f/dzn (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)