"The involvement of young people in decisions that influence their lives is a key step to encourage them to be an integral part of our communities.", stressed Véronique Bertholle (France, SOC/G/PD), member of the Congress, during the round table "Democracy now: how to revitalise democracy, respond to current challenges and give a meaningful role to young people?" in the framework of the Evaluation Conference of the youth campaign "Democracy here, democracy now" held in Strasbourg on 1 February 2023.

Ms Bertholle contributed to the opening of the Conference in her capacity as Deputy Mayor of Strasbourg, and also presented the work of the Congress in the field of youth during a thematic debate. Key references include the European Charter on the Participation of Young People in Local and Regional Life and the "Rejuvenate Politics" initiative, a programme that enables young delegates from the 46 member States to participate in Congress sessions and meetings. More recently, the Congress adopted a report on the future of youth in rural areas and the report on youth work, as well as a children's booklet and guidelines encouraging local and regional authorities to involve children in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Through an exchange with the public, she encouraged young people to continue to contact their local elected representatives and to consider running for office themselves in order to play an active role in the decision-making process. "The Congress will continue its work and commitment to promote youth participation, both among its members and in its own functioning," she concluded.

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