Recognising the distinct challenges faced by today’s youth is crucial. Their perceptions of the world, along with the unique opportunities and obstacles they encounter as a community, set them apart from previous generations. In promoting democracy and representation, it is imperative to foster the inclusive participation of all young individuals, transcending discrimination, within local life and common spaces. Achieving this goal involves integrating them into institutions like local youth councils.
Local Youth Councils serve as platforms where the voices of young people resonate. Supported by local authorities, these groups provide a shared space for discussion, exchange, dialogue, and mobilisation. Young individuals, deeply connected to their surroundings, harbour concerns about their living spaces and hold valuable suggestions for positive transformation. Through youth councils, their voices gain prominence, allowing them to actively contribute to decision-making processes at the local level.
However, ensuring the involvement of all young people, regardless of nationality, race, or social background, in decision-making requires ongoing efforts. While many youths actively participate in public discourse, there remains a notable absence of individuals from various vulnerable social groups. Reasons for non-participation range from a lack of information and accessibility to differing individual priorities and inadequate education, particularly for those groups considered privileged.
The presence of every young person in youth councils holds significance as it facilitates the participation of diverse social groups, thereby enhancing community conditions. Simultaneously, it plays a crucial role in nurturing political culture, encouraging active engagement in public life, intervention, and advocacy. To support the participation of all young people in youth councils, decision-making authorities must ensure the availability of necessary services and resources, thereby fostering an inclusive and empowered decision-making process.
