Vote@16 and Independent Youth Programme proposed at EU Youth Conference
From 18 – 21 March, the EU Youth Conference of the Danish Presidency took place in Sorø, Denmark. The 3 days of discussions at the conference resulted in a set of joint recommendations, drafted by youth delegates and EU decision makers in the field of Youth. The recommendations include a call to EU countries to start the debate on lowering the voting age to 16, as well as easing the voting process through education and simplification of voting procedures. Another highlight of the recommendations include an independent programme for youth with its own budget, in order to promote full participation of young people in society and to foster young people’s creativity, ability to innovate and talent.
Another key theme throughout the recommendations was the importance of close involvement of youth organisations and young people in decision-making. Member States are encouraged to support youth organisations and to form strategic partnerships with them. Non-formal education provided by these youth organisations is necessary for developing skills and competencies of young people.
