By Loukas Fourlas
MEP DISY & EPP
The impact of the pandemic on all European citizens, but especially on our young people, is unpleasant and obvious at every level. However, whether it is about climate, social issues or the digital age, young people and young people are at the heart of our policy making and political priorities. That is why we have agreed to designate 2022 as the European Year of Youth.
The European Union's action spans many different policy areas, from climate, environment and health, to external relations and security, justice and immigration. The Union therefore deals with a wide range of issues on a day-to-day basis and I believe it is our duty to listen to and involve young people in decision making.
We are facing crucial dilemmas that will determine the European perspective. I believe that what is needed is a common Europe that listens to its citizens and especially to its young generations.
Both my own and my fellow MEPs' pressures have borne fruit. The Year of Youth will aim to involve young people in key consultation processes and other public policies at European and national level. It will include conferences, initiatives to promote youth participation in policy-making, awareness-raising campaigns, as well as studies and research on youth issues.
The Conference on the Future of Europe proved to even the most sceptical that youth is not apathetic. It is aware of the problems, it is concerned and it has ideas and vision. The future of Europe is in their hands.
I have said it many times and I will not stop repeating it, that I have great faith in our young people. In the young people of Cyprus and Europe. We must all understand that it is they who will in the future take the reins of the state and society of each Member State and staff the European family. We must equip them with knowledge, ethics, courage, principles and values.
Our young people are asking for a stronger economy, social justice and jobs. Investment in health and action on climate change and the environment. They look forward to a Union of principles and values with rights and security. They are concerned about indiscriminate immigration from third countries, they want to collectively tackle the drug cartels while adapting to the digital transformation and see the need for teleworking, especially for people with disabilities.
The aim of this European Year is nothing less than to make young people's voices even louder, to promote their participation and to foster real opportunities for them.
The aim of this European Year is to make young people's voices heard even more, to foster their participation and to promote real opportunities for them. Through digital technology and the internet, young people are taking action to defend their beliefs and claim a better tomorrow.
I am glad that we have finally started a process of co-creation. We can work with them to shape the future of the European Union. A Union that will be stronger when it embraces the aspirations of our youth.
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