Young people are key drivers of positive change and essential partners to advance sustainable and inclusive development.
There are over 1.8 billion young people in the world today, 90% of whom live in developing countries. In Africa alone, three-quarters of the population is below 35.
Nearly all policy decisions have an impact on youth. It is therefore fundamental to ensure that young people’s perspectives are taken into consideration in those decisions.
However, despite the clear benefits of engaging with children and youth, they are often excluded from political, economic and social decision-making processes on issues that affect them and their future. Girls and young women, and young people with disabilities, are particularly disadvantaged, further exacerbating inequalities.
Youth should be at the centre of everything we do - this is fundamental to build stronger, more legitimate, inclusive, peaceful and democratic societies, where human rights and the rule of law are respected. This is clearly recognised in the Council Conclusions on Youth in External Action, the European Consensus on Development and in the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020-2024.
Programmes and initiatives
The EU supports partner countries to review and design policies to promote young people’s well-being and rights, and facilitate their inclusion in social, civic and economic life.
Youth Sounding Board
The Youth Sounding Board is a space for young people to have an influence on EU external action and international partnerships.
Overseas Countries and Territories Youth Network
Youth Political and Civic Engagement Cohort
DEAR: Development Education and Awareness Raising Programme
U-Report
AU-EU Youth Cooperation Hub
Latest news
Quality education in Africa: EU launches €100 million Regional Teachers' Initiative
Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen launched today a Regional Teachers' Initiative in Africa and for Africa, a €100 million investment from the EU budget in empowering the world's fastest growing youth population through quality education.
Commissioner Urpilainen in Tanzania and Malawi to launch the EU Youth Action Plan in Africa and strengthen key partnerships under Global Gateway
Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, embarks today on a mission to Southeastern Africa, from 25 to 28 October, to enhance engagement with African partners in the current complex geopolitical context.
Commissioner Urpilainen launches EU Youth Action Plan in the Caribbean with students at University of West Indies and St Ambrose Primary School
During her mission to Barbados on 11 and 12 October, European Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen, launched the EU Youth Action Plan in the Caribbean at the University of West Indies.