Youth Forum Board Meet Armenian President in Yerevan

The Board of the European Youth Forum met last weekend (11 – 12 June), in Yerevan, Armenia, having been invited by the National Youth Council of Armenia (NYCA). Thanks to NYCA, the Youth Forum Board had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Serhz Sargsyan, President of the Republic of Armenia.

The Youth Forum Board discussed key policy areas with Mr. Sargsyan, such as youth rights, social inclusion and youth participation in Armenia. They also met with the President’s chief of staff. Furthermore, NYCA organised cultural visits for the Board, including a visit to Yerevan museum, a city tour and a trip to the Holy City Edjmiatsin.

During their meeting, the Board also allocated time to prepare the drafting of the future Work Plan of the European Youth Forum (to be adopted at the next General Assembly). Other internal topics discussed included the agenda of the next General Assembly and the process by which the Youth Forum prepares its policy documents, and whether this can be improved. They also discussed the UN Security Council Resolution on Youth, Peace and Security, the European Youth Capital 2016, and the on-going advocacy and activities of the European Youth Forum.

As well as discussion of the issues specified above, this recent Board meeting provides a spotlight for the important work being done by NYCA. NYCA was created in 1995 and has now 70 full member organisations. It has been a full member of the European Youth Forum since 2002.

Currently, NYCA is particularly active regarding the ongoing constitutional reform in Armenia to ensure a proper role for youth organisations and young people. It is also encouraging youth involvement in social and political life in the country (supporting young politicians) and promoting the role of youth organisations and young people in peaceful conflict resolution.