Dear readers,

Young people play a vital role in shaping the future of society. Their energy, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives are invaluable in tackling the complex challenges of our time, particularly when it comes to addressing climate change. We owe the youth movement a debt of gratitude for their dedication, hard work and eloquently expressed expertise on these matters.

I witnessed first-hand their passion and dedication in the fight against climate change while participating in the UN climate summit in New York, where I marched down Wall Street and Manhattan with Greta Thunberg and the youth movement. One of my main objectives when I took over as the Vice-President for Communication was to help amplify their voices.

Over the years, the Committee has worked closely with young people and youth organisations and recognises their contributions to the development of a more sustainable and equitable society through initiatives such as the Civil Society Prize 2022 on youth and Your Europe, Your Say! (YEYS).

The upcoming 14th edition of YEYS, dedicated to Youth Democracy Dialogues, is a testament to the EESC's commitment towards youth participation. I am excited to see the students' recommendations and insights for the future of Europe and I look forward to welcoming them to Brussels in March.

I am proud to have played a role, with the opinion I wrote, in the establishment of the Youth Climate and Sustainability Round Tables, which bring together youth and EU institutions. The kick-off meeting in July 2021 was attended by 11 youth representatives and Commission Executive Vice-President Frans Timmermans. This initiative has given young people a platform to share their ideas and solutions for tackling climate change and has helped to mobilise a new generation of activists.

The EESC also ensures that the voices of young people are heard in global policy-making by sending a youth delegate to UNFCCC meetings as an additional member of the EESC delegation. Sophia Wiegand was the EESC youth delegate to COP26 and COP27.

Looking back on my time as EESC Vice-President, I am struck by the determination and energy of the young people I have had the privilege of working with. Our young trainees, in particular, have been a source of inspiration. Their participation in EESC activities has been a valuable asset for the Committee, and we are proud to be part of their journey towards acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to become active citizens and leaders in their communities. It is through initiatives such as the European Year of Skills 2023 that we can continue to nurture and develop the talents of the next generation and provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to face the challenges of the future.

I am pleased with the progress we have made in empowering youth in the green transition. However, much work remains to be done. I am confident that we will continue to build on these efforts to ensure that young people's voices are heard and that we take urgent action to address the climate crisis. The future of our planet and our societies depend on it.

Cillian Lohan

EESC Vice-President for Communication