Over 20 young political leaders from Europe and the MENA region convened at the European Youth Centre in Strasbourg for the study session No Signal: Isolation in You(th), organised by the Youth for Democracy programme in cooperation with the International Federation of Liberal Youth (IFLRY). The event, held from 15 to 19 June 2026, delved into the rising issue of youth loneliness and its implications for democratic participation, social cohesion, and young people's well-being.
Examining Loneliness and Its Democratic Consequences
The study session provided a platform for participants to explore the personal, social, and structural dimensions of loneliness, reflecting on how isolation can contribute to political polarisation, weaken civic engagement, and create conditions conducive to authoritarian narratives. Through non-formal education methodologies, participants shared experiences, analysed challenges affecting young people in their communities, and developed practical responses to address increasing disconnection.
Key Highlights and Sessions
- Opening Remarks: Sophie Kwasny, Head of the Education, Training and Cooperation Division of the Youth Department of the Council of Europe, welcomed participants and emphasised the importance of strengthening young people's participation and resilience in democratic societies. Salpi Ozgur, course director representing IFLRY, introduced the organisation's work and the objectives of the study session.
- Root Causes and Consequences: Throughout the week, participants explored the root causes and consequences of youth loneliness, including barriers related to social exclusion, economic insecurity, political disengagement, and mental health challenges. Sessions focused on understanding the links between social interaction, civic engagement, and democratic participation, as well as the impact of isolation on public discourse and community life.
- Skills Laboratory: A dedicated skills laboratory enabled participants to identify and develop approaches for fostering meaningful connections among young people. Working individually and in groups, they designed community-based initiatives and action plans aimed at reducing isolation and strengthening opportunities for participation in social, civic, and political life.
- Engagement with Council of Europe Experts: Participants visited the Palais de l'Europe to attend the opening event of the hackathon Hack the Hate – Renew Democracy. They also engaged with Council of Europe experts working in the fields of human rights, health, and youth policy, discussing the relationship between mental health, democratic participation, and social inclusion.
The study session concluded with the presentation of participants' projects and follow-up plans, which will be implemented within their organisations and local communities. The activity created a platform for participants to transform their reflections into concrete actions responding to the growing challenge of youth isolation.
By strengthening participants' knowledge, skills, and capacities, No Signal: Isolation in You(th) contributed to ongoing efforts to promote inclusive democratic participation and supported the involvement of young people in discussions related to the New Democratic Pact for Europe. The study session reaffirmed the importance of connection, solidarity, and active citizenship in building democratic societies where all young people can participate meaningfully.
For more information about the study session, please visit the dedicated webpage.
