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EU Youth Dialogue

Young people all over Europe have ideas, hopes and concerns about their future. They have the best understanding of their own lives, what currently works and what adversity they face, and importantly how things can change for the better!

However, there is often a big gap between young people and decision-makers that makes it difficult for these ideas to be heard.

What is the EU Youth Dialogue?

The EU Youth Dialogue (previously called the Structured Dialogue) is a way of making young people’s voice heard in European policy-making processes. The aim is to create a dialogue between young people and youth organisations with policy and decision makers, as well as experts, researchers and other members of civil society.

So far, there have been 8 cycles of the Dialogue. Each cycle lasts 18 months and focuses on a different theme set by the Council of Youth Ministers.

Quick facts!

  • It is estimated that over 290,000 young people have taken part in the EU Youth Dialogue so far! (2011-2020).
  • There have been 21 EU Youth Conferences hosted by 21 EU Member States.
  • As a result of cycle 6, eleven EU Youth Goals were established.

How does it work?

The Trio Presidency takes the lead role with regard to steering the implementation of the EU Youth Dialogue, in close cooperation with the European Commission, European Youth Forum and other youth civil society representatives, within a coordination group. Input is gathered from young people through different forms of consultations and outreach, debates and discussions and at EU Youth Conferences.

Interested to get involved?

For youth organisations: all National Youth Councils of the EU Member States are part of the National Working Groups. A number of selected international non-governmental youth organisations also actively participate in the EU Youth Dialogue process.

For individuals: As an individual, you can take part in the EU Youth Dialogue process either at National level, by taking part in the activities and consultations which are led by the National Working Group of your country (to know more, you can contact the NYC of your country). At European level, through your INGYO involved in EU Youth Dialogue process.

Key Documents and Resources

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