Protecting the rights of young people is not optional; it is imperative.

Young Europeans are living through a period of mass change, social upheaval, and instability, a defining
time when the commitment to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law is under constant pressure.
The Advisory Council on Youth of the Council of Europe expresses its deepest support for fellow youth
advocates and activists across Europe, who work tirelessly to uphold these fundamental values.

At a time of mounting instability and democratic decline within Europe, neighbouring regions and
increasingly in multilateral spaces, we are witnessing the targeting of activists and civil society actors right
before our eyes. Young people are targeted as a consequence of their engagement with international
organisations, including the Council of Europe, and for defending core democratic values and human
rights standards. We are deeply concerned by the growing restrictions on fundamental freedoms, the
shrinking of civic spaces, and the marginalisation of young people from public life. These developments
contradict the principles and standards set by member States and enshrined in the European Convention
on Human Rights, the European Social Charter, and the Council of Europe’s long-standing commitments
to youth participation and democratic governance.  Read the entire statement 

The statements of the Advisory Council are published for the purpose of informing the public about the
activities of the statutory bodies of the Council of Europe youth sector. The statements reflect the
opinions and positions of the Advisory Council and its members. The views expressed therein do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Council of Europe.
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