Resolution on EU Youth Strategy

In February 2026, the main trial of Enes Hocaoğulları — a Youth Delegate to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe — will take place, following politically motivated charges related to his public statements delivered within an official Council of Europe setting.

International Non-Governmental Youth Organisations (INGYOs) are a crucial part of the European Union Youth Dialogue (EUYD). While they offer many advantages and their contributions remain essential, their presence at EU Youth Dialogue conferences has noticeably diminished in recent years. This development raises concerns about the inclusivity and effectiveness of the dialogue process, as the absence of INGYOs could limit the diversity of perspectives and expertise in youth-related decision-making.

In March 2023, the Government of Georgia initiated work on a legislative proposal on “foreign agents” that would have forced civil society organisations to be registered as being under foreign influence should they be receiving funding from sources outside of the country. As Georgia initiated negotiations for EU membership merely 6 months ago, this underscores how fragile Democracy and the Rule of Law are in our societies and how civic spaces must be protected tirelessly every day, everywhere.