Development of Democratic Youth Organisations from an All-European Perspective

The Schengen system, once a cornerstone of EU unity, faces major challenges from border checks, political misuse, and crises, threatening citizens’ rights. Yet progress continues, with EU court rulings, DiscoverEU, and new member accessions renewing hope. Defending Schengen remains essential.

European institutions, governments, and online platforms have worked to make social media safer, but some proposals risk undermining youth rights. Measures driven by fear may backfire, causing circumvention and harm. Young people could ultimately be worse off as a result.

In 2025, 51 years after the Turkish invasion, the Cyprus Youth Council continues advocating for youth rights, peace, and reconciliation, including Turkish Cypriot youth. It envisions a free, reunited Cyprus as a model of coexistence, while the European Youth Forum upholds its principles in addressing the Cyprus Problem.