On 5 June, we celebrate World Environment Day, the largest international day dedicated to environmental awareness and action, led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) since 1973. World Environment Day highlights the urgency of addressing the interconnected crises of pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss. At the Reykjavik Summit in May 2023, the Heads of State and Government of the Council of Europe reaffirmed that a clean, healthy and sustainable environment is essential for the enjoyment of human rights by present and future generations, and underlined the need for strengthened action on the human rights aspects of environmental protection.

Youth organisations supported by the European Youth Foundation (EYF) in 2026 are actively contributing to the effort of advancing climate action, environmental justice and democratic participation:

• “ReGeneration Week 2026”, implemented by The ReGeneration 2030 Foundation, brings together 140 young people from the Nordic and Baltic Sea region for a six-day camp focused on building skills and strategies to enhance a just sustainable transition in the region through democratic action, from activistic methods like democratic protests to community building to direct political advocacy. 
• “Unmasking industry influence: empowering youth for sustainable health”, implemented by the International Youth Health Organization is a five-day training on the right to a healthy environment, with a focus on nutrition and physical activity. The project aims to understand and challenge industry tactics and narratives shaping health and sustainability policies. As a follow-up to the training, participants will develop an educational game to be used in local actions and awareness-raising campaigns.
• “Transforming environmental conflicts: youth for dialogue and rights”, implemented by Youth and Environment Europe, equips young people with skills in non-violent communication, dialogue and advocacy to address conflicts linked to environmental protection. The project combines international training, local community actions and collective reflection to strengthen youth participation and environmental rights advocacy.
• “Europe on Track 12: young climate defenders in action”, implemented by AEGEE-Europe, supports young people in engaging in climate-related democratic processes at local, regional and European levels. Through trainings, educational activities, conferences and advocacy meetings, participants develop policy recommendations and promote climate action in their communities and with decision-makers.