ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AND THE OPEN METHOD OF COORDINATION
YOUNG PEOPLE'S ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP AND THE OPEN METHOD OF COORDINATION (OMC) IN THE YOUTH FIELD
In the youth field, the Open Method of Coordination (OMC) is applied with a flexible approach, with due regard for the competences of the Member States and the principle of subsidiarity. It focuses on 4 priorities: “participation”, information”, “voluntary activities” and “a greater understanding and knowledge of youth”. It defines the roles of Member States, Council and Commission. The working procedure can be presented briefly as follows:
- Each Member State completes a standardised questionnaire on the 4 priorities. On the basis of their responses, the Commission presents a synthesis report and proposes common objectives for each priority. The Council adopts common objectives for the priorities.
- Member States are responsible for implementation of the common objectives. After a period of two years, they report on implementation. On the basis of these reports, the Commission prepares a progress report which is presented to the Council.
- Implementation is without reference to indicators or benchmarks, however the question of whether and what to monitor may be an element of the Commission’s report.
In order to take into account young people’s views, the OMC states that Member States should consult young people (following their national practices) before sending their reports to the Commission. The Commission should consult the European Youth Forum.
During the first cycle of the OMC (2002-2004) the Council on the basis of proposals of the Commission has adopted 14 Common objectives for the 4 priorities.
- In 2006 the Commission has presented a Report on the implementation of the Common Objectives for the priorities “participation” and “information". This includes information on the implementation of the “better knowledge” priority in so far as a better knowledge of youth participation and information is concerned. On the basis of this report, the Commission has adopted a Communication (21/07/06) and then the FI presidency has proposed a resolution which was adopted by the Council of youth ministers in November.
- In 2007 the Commission will present a Report on the implementation of the
Common Objectives for the “voluntary activities". On the basis of this report, the PT presidency will propose a Resolution to be adopted by the Council by the end of 2007.
- In 2008 the Commission will present a Report on the implementation of the Common Objectives for the “better knowledge”. On the basis of this report, the Council will adopt a Resolution in 2008.
Documents for download:
>> 20.07.06 - Commission adopts Communication on youth participation and information in view of promoting young people's active citizenship
In a Communication adopted today, the Commission emphasises the need to improve the information for and participation of the young in order to get their full involvement in democratic life at both national and European level. The Communication is a follow-up to the 2003 White Paper on a “New Impetus for European Youth”. It calls upon the Member States to pursue their actions aiming at procuring better information, at encouraging civic participation among the young and at introducing a structured dialogue with young people on the European Agenda.
Analysis of national reports
14.11.06 - The Council of youth ministers has adopted the resolution on participation by and information for young people in view of promoting their active citizenship. The resolution confirms the common objectives in this area, invites the Commission and Member States to develop a continuous structured dialogue with young people and organise on a regular basis the European Youth Week
14 common objectives – The three council resolutions on Participation and information, greater understanding of youth and voluntary activities
Report on the implementation of the Common Objectives … - Analysis of the country reports
Communication - (21/07/06)
Resolution (07.12.06)
