We need a Europe where the voice of young people matters

The newly elected European Parliament will hold its first plenary sitting in July. While the pro-democratic majority remains, the rise of the far right and Eurosceptic forces following the June elections is a worrying trend. We also saw the growing appeal of the far-right parties among the younger generation, who clearly are not immune to these trends. This is the time for democratic forces to take responsibility, work together and show a clear commitment to a strong Europe, where the voice of young people matters.

Involving young people in EU policy-making is imperative for a resilient, sustainable and forward-looking Europe. We must redouble our efforts to fully integrate the voice of youth in the commitments made at EU level. Elections should not be the only time when the voice of young people counts: the EESC is advocating for systemic and regular ways for youth to speak up. 

Opening the doors of the EESC to young people – including those from candidate countries – is one of the priorities of my mandate. In May 2024, the EESC became the first EU institution to apply the Youth Test – a tool designed to ensure proposals benefit young people – to its policy recommendations. By applying the Youth Test to our opinions, we ensure that the perspective of young people is included in policies, that the impact on young people is considered and that we mitigate the potential negative effects the policies might have on them. 

Before introducing the Youth Test, we run a pilot to see how such a test would work in practice. We worked with young people across Europe and beyond, who joined our meetings and assisted in drafting opinions. It was inspiring to see their commitment, dedication, brilliant ideas and expertise. We have now launched the call for application to the official EESC Youth Test, which was closed on 30 June. I want to thank all the youth representatives who took part in the pilot and the members of the EESC Youth Group for their dedication in turning the Youth Test into a reality. 

The EU needs young people. That is why EU institutions must follow suit to provide a youth-driven Europe. While the European Parliament will take shape over the next month and the European Commission will prepare for its next mandate in autumn, the EESC will continue to promote greater investment in young people: time to take a step further! 

With the beginning of summer, I take this opportunity to warmly thank all the colleagues who have made it possible to achieve another great milestone for our Committee.

Oliver Röpke 

EESC President