EU adopts Youth Action Plan to involve young people worldwide in policy-making

On 29 November, the Council of the European Union adopted the Youth Action Plan for engaging young people in EU external action. 

It supports the involvement of young people worldwide in policy-making by boosting their participation and engagement in international fora and allocating the necessary resources.

“The protection of young activists and human rights defenders across the world is required. The Council recognises the need to support youth in conflict-affected regions, especially in the context of wars, conflicts and crises, such as the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the violent repression of the peaceful protests in Iran, the suppression of civil society in Belarus and the deteriorating situation in Afghanistan,” says a press release by the Council of the EU.

The Council also stressed the importance of universal health coverage for young people, including in the area of mental health, and  the importance of supporting the inclusive mobility of young people worldwide.

EU High Representative Josep Borrell said on Twitter that the adoption of the EU Youth Action Plan was a strong political signal: “It demonstrates the EU’s commitment to youth empowerment, to involve youth worldwide in policy-making, and to protect young activists.”

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Press release