Brussels, 01/06/2007 (Agence Europe) - The third European Youth Week, involving thousands of young people from across Europe, will take place from 3-10 June 2007. There will be debates and festivities organised by the national agencies of the Youth in Action! (2007-2013) programme, which will be officially launched at his event. In Brussels, 200 young people will gather to debate social inclusion and diversity, in areas such as employment, equal opportunities, combating discrimination, voluntary service, active citizenship and non-formal learning.
Ahead of this event, the European Commission has just published a Eurobarometer survey of young Europeans, the first of its kind involving all 27 member states. The survey was carried out among 19,000 young people aged 15-30. The results show that differences between the old and new member states are slight. Young people show themselves to be individualistic and, and despite an interest in matters political, demonstrate a certain distrust of them and their institutions. 81% of those surveyed would like to become more involved in political decision-making. The survey highlights real concerns over employment, but 71% of those questioned think the EU is a driver of economic progress. 40% of those surveyed think the EU is too bureaucratic, but 90% see it as providing the opportunity to travel, study or work where they want.
Among the major events of the Week, on Tuesday 5 June, the projects selected as part of the YOUTH (2000-2006) programme will be presented with certificates to mark their achievement. On Wednesday, the young people will have the opportunity to take part in a discussion with Commissioners Ján Figel' (Education) and Vladimir Spidla (Social Affairs and Employment). The conclusions of the discussions will be used by the Commission in its dialogue with member states. Thus, the European Commission hopes encourage young people to become more involved in political decision-making and its follow-up. More especially, the Youth in Action! Programme will support projects from young people right across Europe. (gc)