The EESC has emphasised the importance of incorporating youth perspectives into EU policies, urging youth organisations to engage with the EESC Youth Test, an initiative aiming to amplify young people's voices in policymaking. 

In its recent call for applications, the EESC invited youth organisations to apply to participate in the EESC Youth Test, with a deadline of 30 June 2024. Selected organisations will identify EESC opinions they wish to influence, participate in meetings and hearings and provide written contributions. Eligible organisations must be democratically established, uphold the principles of the European Convention on Human Rights, and have activities or decision-making bodies led by young people. 

Over the past year, the EESC has piloted this test, allowing youth representatives across Europe to contribute to discussions on significant issues, such as democracy, the common agricultural policy, and EU-UK youth engagement. The success of this pilot project has led to its establishment as a permanent tool, and the EESC is calling on other EU institutions to adopt similar measures. 

During a recent plenary debate, youth representatives expressed satisfaction with the initiative, which ensures their involvement beyond traditionally youth-centred topics, such as the climate crisis. 

EESC president Oliver Röpke highlighted the initiative as a core political commitment, emphasising the need for continuous youth engagement in the EU's decision-making process. He noted that elections should not be the only occasion for youth voices to be heard, and that the Youth Test would ensure they had regular input in EU policies. 

Katrīna Leitāne, president of the EESC's ad hoc Youth Group, remarked on the progress of integrating youth voices into EU decision-making, noting that the Youth Test is a living document that will evolve with experience. Elias Dray, vice-president of the European Youth Forum, praised the EESC for its leadership and encouraged youth organisations to join the initiative, ensuring their perspectives shape future EESC opinions. 

Albania’s Minister for Youth and Children, Bora Muzhaqi, also took part in the EESC plenary session. Her country is striving to be a model in the field of youth policy, demonstrating the value of having people in office who are responsible solely for youth issues."I truly believe that with our work today with youth and for youth, we are preparing our young people for the future… we are empowering them to be the leaders of the present to ensure they inherit a sustainable and ecologically diverse planet."

The EESC has excellent working relationship with Albania, showcasing the key role of transnational partnership in promoting youth participation at all levels of governance.

The EESC has been committed to this initiative since September 2022, when it adopted an opinion on the EU Youth Test. The EESC's ongoing efforts, including the annual Your Europe, Your Say! event, further demonstrate its dedication to enhancing youth participation in the EU decision-making process. 

This year's recommendations from the event, which was held in March 2024, are aimed at the next EU leaders and are available online. (ks)