Organised by: Volonteurope and the European Youth Forum with a contribution by the EESC Sustainable Development Observatory (SDO)
Concept of the workshop
Narrative
This workshop, offered by two major European networks – Volonteurope and the European Youth Forum – will offer participants space to explore recent trends and grassroots experiences from various European countries with regard to how civil society, and youth organisations in particular, are fighting for a meaningful space to participate in and receive adequate support for civil society activities, countering ongoing shrinking civic space. Furthermore, it will build on the global call from young people across the world to have a say on climate action and their future, seeking sustainable and uniform ways to involve young people in decision-making on climate policy. This should both provide direct follow-up to activism in the streets and attempt to further open the space for civic engagement.
Participants will hear from the young people directly: their stories, their experiences, and their successful initiatives and lessons learned in contributing to the topic of the workshop. An interactive approach will ensure that participants can share their ideas and take something back to their own situations –tips, inspiration and methods.
The young people participating might talk about the impact of their actions locally, regionally, nationally and at a European level, the scope of their projects and work and the reactions of political decision-makers to their work.
