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Youth of European Nationalities (YEN)

International Non-Governmental Youth Organisation - Full members
The Youth of European Nationalities (YEN) was founded in 1984 as an independent youth network, and currently consists of 42 member organisations in over 19 different countries. Under the slogan "Minority Rights are Human Rights", YEN represents the interests of over 100.000 young people of autochthonous, national, ethnic and linguistic minorities in Europe. Activities of the YEN are executed and determined solely by youth. Together with its members, the YEN strives for a dynamic, multicultural, multilingual, inclusive, rights-based and forward-looking Europe.

Related news and publications

Youth rights

Protection of the rights of youth from minoritised national and linguistic groups in Europe in the context of rising extremism

Motion - 08/11/2025

The European Youth Forum emphasises that minority rights are human rights and a key measure of a healthy democracy. These values are increasingly under threat, highlighting the need to protect minorities to uphold open and democratic societies.

formal and non-formal education

Addressing linguistic discrimination in youth international mobility and participation

Motion - 09/05/2025

Language barriers limit young people's, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, access to rights, public life, and international opportunities. This motion promotes equality by combating language discrimination, fostering inclusion, and affirming that European integration must respect all cultures and languages equally.

Advocating for linguistic diversity to make Europe stronger

Motion - 22/11/2024

Europe boasts a rich tapestry of linguistic backgrounds, with over 200 languages indigenous to Europe from at least 5 different language families. These languages are repositories of unique cultural identities, histories, and traditions. Preserving linguistic diversity is thus essential for safeguarding Europe's cultural heritage and promoting cultural pluralism.

Finding unity in challenging times

Motion - 09/03/2024

The Israel-Hamas war has reopened a wound in the hearts of millions of Jews, Muslims, Israelis, Palestinians, and Arabs.