In the preamble to the Charter, the Congress defines youth participation and active citizenship, stating that it is “(...) about having the right, the means, the space and the opportunity and where necessary the support to participate in and influence decisions and engage in actions and activities so as to contribute to building a better society.” The Charter presents concrete ideas and instruments that can be used by young people, youth organisations, local authorities, and other groups and institutions involved in participation work. The charter consists of three parts relating to different aspects of youth participation at a local level: sectoral policies, instruments for youth participation and institutional participation by young people in local and regional affairs. The Council of Europe’s Youth Department developed a manual “Have your Say” that explains the provisions of the Charter and provide guidance on how to use it.
Youth specific: Yes