During European Youth Week 2026, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) highlighted its long‑standing commitment to meaningful youth participation. On 24 April, a breakout session titled “Meaningful youth participation in action!” brought together more than 40 young participants to discuss how youth involvement can translate into real influence at local, national and EU levels. The session showcased EESC mechanisms such as the Youth Test, which integrates young people’s views into EU legislative processes, and the Youth Delegate to COP, which allows youth to contribute directly to international climate negotiations. Panelists, including EESC Youth Group president Nicoletta Merlo and former youth delegate Sophia Wiegand, emphasized the need for early engagement, clear roles, and long‑term support to avoid tokenistic participation. The EESC reaffirmed its institutional dedication to youth engagement through ongoing events, capacity‑building, and inclusive access for marginalised groups.
© European Union, 1995‑2019 (© EU).
Summary adapted from material on the European Economic and Social Committee website (https://www.eesc.europa.eu ).
Original source © European Union, 1995‑ (© EU).
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