The Youth Department of the Council of Europe took part in the 36th General Assembly of the European Youth Information and Counselling Agency (ERYICA), where it presented the current priorities of the Council of Europe’s youth sector and contributed to discussions on several shared areas of interest.
In the face of democratic backsliding, rising political apathy, and declining trust in democratic institutions across Europe, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe has issued his 2025 report, underlining the urgent need for new and innovative tools to address today’s complex challenges. Central to this effort is the new Democratic Pact for Europe, which aims to rebuild public trust in democracy, with a particular emphasis on re-engaging young people.
The upcoming 10th Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth will further amplify these efforts, focusing on empowering young people through the integration of a youth perspective into all stages of policy development and decision-making.
As part of this broader strategic vision, a Reference Framework is currently being developed to help embed youth perspectives into all areas of the Council of Europe’s work, from standard-setting and monitoring to co-operation.
At the Assembly, participants voiced strong concern over the shrinking civic space for youth organisations, continued lack of adequate resources, and the growing threat of disinformation. These issues highlight the pressing need for increased investment in the field of youth information and greater support for youth organisations to build resilience and combat the spread of harmful narratives. Equipping young people with tools to navigate disinformation is seen as a critical priority.
A highlight of the General Assembly was the joint celebration of the achievements of organisations awarded the European Youth Information Quality Label, recognised for their commitment to providing reliable and accessible information to young people. These organisations embody values of youth engagement, inclusion, and participation, and showcase innovative practices that connect with diverse communities.
In closing, the Youth Department reaffirmed the essential role of ERYICA and its member organisations as trusted partners in promoting transparency and resilience in youth work. Their efforts in informing, educating, and inspiring young people are more vital than ever in today’s rapidly evolving digital and democratic landscape.
