During the European Youth Week, a multistakeholder policy debate took place at the European Economic and Social Committee premises in Brussels to address and enhance youth engagement within Euro-Mediterranean participatory dialogues and decision-making processes. Organised by the Anna Lindh Foundation with the support of DG NEAR, the event convened on 16-17 April, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including academics, experts, and youth representatives. 

The agenda was structured to tackle key aspects of youth participation, commencing with institutional remarks and a keynote delivered by youth representatives who shared their experiences and their perspectives on the challenges faced in the region.

Discussions explored the effectiveness of current policy approaches, assessing the necessary qualifications versus capabilities of youth representatives, and delved into the strategies for ensuring their genuine engagement and representativeness in decision-making processes.

Panels provided critical insights into the obstacles still hindering meaningful youth participation, discussing how to bridge gaps in policy frameworks and enhance the skills and resources available to young people. The focus was also on the importance of representativeness and legitimacy in selecting youth participants, ensuring that the diversity of the Euro-Med region's youth was accurately and effectively represented.

Overall, the debate highlighted the ongoing need for structured support and clearer pathways to integrate young voices in governance and policy-making, emphasising the role of youth as essential contributors to sustainable development and societal well-being in the Euro-Mediterranean region.