TUNE – Youth Proposals
PROJECT NUMBER: 101162241
TITLE: TRANSNATIONAL UNITED NETWORK IN EUROPE
PROJECT ACRONYM: TUNE
TITLE: YOUTH’S INPUTS ON EUROPEAN DEMOCRATIC PROCEDURES
Summary of the project
TheTUNE network is an EU-wideyouth-focused networkwith the goal of being sustainable upon the conclusion of the project, which is supported for three years. Encouraging youth engagement in democratic life in accordance with the EU Youth Strategy is the shared objective of the network's member organizations. The second phase of 2024, which we are currently in, aims to increase youth turnout in EU elections by increasing their participation in democratic processes. It also raises awareness of and promotes innovative ICT and edemocratic tools for an inclusive and transparent European democracy. Although young people are driven and engaged in politics, they discover that the conventional channels for getting involved are falling short of their expectations.
The TUNE Network consists of 18 partner organizations from 17 countries (Greece, Albania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Italy, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, Croatia, Portugal, Ireland and Poland). This geographic diversity leverages a diverse pool of perspectives and expertise as well as the wealth of cultural and social differences among member countries and provides a valuable source of insights and best practices that enhances the network's capacity for sustainable growth and impact through its activities. Moreover, the aggregate impact of the network is enhanced. The network's lobbying efforts are greatly strengthened by the involvement of seventeen countries, both regionally and internationally. The weight of the collective voice is greater when promoting young engagement in laws and initiatives.
Thenetwork's activitiesarefocusedon increasing youngpeople'sinvolvement in democratic processes. According to numerous analysts, successful modern society change and a robust democracy both depend on engaged citizen participation. In order to make up for some democratic shortcomings and to guarantee a possibly more inclusive public engagement in the decision-making process, new avenues and procedures for participation are being explored. In order to guarantee robust democracy in Europe, the goal is to increase and enhance youth participation in democratic processes. The overall objectives of the TUNE Network are:
● To encourage and expand young people's participation in local, national, and European political decision-making, thereby cultivating a culture of active citizenship.
● To empower and educate young people, providing them with the information, abilities, and means necessary to actively engage in democratic processes.
● To lower obstacles regarding participation by guaranteeing that all young people, regardless of background, have equal opportunities to influence and contribute to political outcomes.
● To promote laws and programs that address youth issues and interests and support their representation in all governmental spheres.
● To spread knowledge about the value of youth participation in democracy and offer education.
● To collaborate with government institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to increase the effect of our work and promote a more inclusive and participatory democracy.
● To strive toward the long-term aim of creating a society in which young people are actively involved in inclusive democratic processes, instilling a sense of ownership and responsibility for shaping their communities and Europe's future.
Aim of the document:
The “Youth Proposals” document is part of a series of activities designed for the second phase of TUNE network, for the year 2024. It serves the purpose of gathering, collecting and recording the voices of young people all over Europe, from various backgrounds, such as youth workers, young members of the partners’ organizations, and young EU citizens in general.
As part of a pre-campaign to promote youth participation before the Advocacy Training Course in Brussels, a Google form has been created to gather the opinions of 360 young people from across Europe. This includes participants from Turkey, Serbia, Albania, and North Macedonia countries that are not EU members to broaden the scope of dialogue during the training. The advocacy training specifically designed based on the contributions
from young people who participated in the preliminary campaign to ensure that the training is highly relevant and directly addresses the concerns and needs of young Europeans.
The pre-campaign questionnaire is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and aspirations of young Europeans. It begins by identifying the Current Challenges young people face, such as employment, education, and mental health, asking for their direct input on pressing issues that need immediate attention from policymakers. This is followed by encouraging participants to propose Policy Recommendations. Here, they can suggest actionable solutions and changes that could improve their lives, directly linking identified problems with potential policy interventions.
The second focus of the questionnaire is on Empowerment and Engagement. It explores the necessary Support for Activists, determining what resources, training, or networks are needed to empower young changemakers. Concurrently, it examines how to enhance Engagement with Politics, seeking ways to simplify the process for young people to understand and participate in European politics, thereby making democratic processes more accessible and engaging for the youth.
Lastly, the questionnaire addresses Personal Impact and Inclusive Participation. Participants share their Personal Experiences to shed light on the real-world impacts of current policies and pinpoint areas needing improvement. The section on Inclusive Democracy asks for ideas for creating a more inclusive European democracy, focusing on broadening participation to ensurediverseyoung voices areintegratedintoshaping Europe’s democratic processes. This holistic approach ensures that the training and advocacy efforts are deeply relevant and effectively tailored to the youth’s needs across Europe.
Methodology
The project's coordinator, United Societies of the Balkans (USB), created a Google Form with a variety of questions about EU policies and what young people residing in Europe would like to see changed to better their living conditions, well-being, and political representation. Google Form is an online questionnaire tool for data collecting, similar to an
email questionnaire. The idea is that it is still a 'questionnaire', which acts as a tool for gathering quantitative data. USB chose this method in order to create accessible forms that automatically collect responses. This methodology allowed us to ask questions in a variety offormats,makingitidealforawiderangeofdatacollectionneeds. Furthermore,itissimple to use, generally has a user-friendly interface and young participants are familiar with it. The questions were primarily multiple-choice, but there were also some essay-type questions where people could expound on their personal perspectives on EU policies and the issues that young people face today as EU citizens.
Demographic analysis of participants:
Demographic analysis seeks to determine the trajectory of individual demographic phenomena in a given territory over a specific time period. Its significance lies in its ability to provide meaningful data regarding a specific population’s traits and trends. For this document USB used a descriptive method of demographic analysis. This means that the method helps to describe the demographics of the young population of Europe in regards to their relationship with the EU decision and policy makers and their fair representation. Demographic analysis is a powerful tool in the research world. By grasping the pulse of the young European citizens, we were more capable and efficient when designing the Advocacy Training Course, so that the final participation and results are as relevant, valid and meaningful as possible.
Gender
According to the Google Form statistics, more females responded to the survey, with 59.5%, compared to 38% for males. When it came to non-binary responses, the percentage was only 0.5%, and 2% did not want to reveal their gender.
Age
The survey's respondents were primarily between the ages of 18 and 24, accounting for 57.7% of the total. The 25-30 age group was the second most likely to provide feedback on their experiences living in the European Union, with about 21% of respondents. There were fewer responses from adults aged 30 and up, with the percentage reaching a 14.4%, while minors aged 13 to 17 made up 6.5%.
Nationality
The survey's responses came from countries that are among the 18 partner organizations of theTUNENetwork2024. All networkmembers approached 20young peopleeach,reaching 360 responses in total, and the survey participants got the opportunity to bring forward their recommendations for more inclusive EU policies.
Pie Chart 1: Gender Analysis
Pie Chart 2: Age Analysis
Responses
The main purpose of the survey was to find out what young people in Europe thought should be done to make the European Union’s democracy more inclusive. Other goals included finding out what major problems young people might have while living in the EU, how to make it easier for them to understand and participate in EU politics, what role young people should play in shaping Europe’s future, and what kind of support young activists and changemakers need to make an impact on youth-oriented policies in Europe.
In addition, there were three open-ended questions about the pressing issues that young people in Europe are currently facing, the policies or changes that specifically need to be put into place to improve the lives of young people in Europe, and whether they could share any personal experiences or difficulties they have encountered as young EU residents that are crucial for policymakers to be aware of.
Two categories were created from the response analysis, depending on how the survey's questions were worded. As previously indicated, there were some multiple-choice questions on the poll; the detailed responses are provided below. Each question allowed respondents to select up to two answers. The answers to these multiple-choice questions are examined first. Open-ended questions were included in the second category, giving respondents the opportunity to express more intimate opinions about their satisfaction levels, unfavorable attitudes, and difficulties they encounter as inhabitants of the European Union.
Multiple Choice Questions
Inclusive European democracy
Young people from all over Europe were asked what changes they would like to see in Europe so that a more inclusive democracy is achieved. The responses varied. What is
interesting to note is that the answer that received a significant 62.5% out of 360 responses was the “increased funding for youth-led initiatives and projects” answer, emphasizing the need of young people to take matters in their own hands and be given the opportunity to make changes on their own, with the necessary financial support provided by European Union’s agencies. The second highest number of responses was about a stronger youth representation in the European Parliament. A significant percentage 49.4% of the respondents' answers were actually influenced by the desire and need of young people to speak up and be heard. This correlates with the fact that many choices also included the necessity of increasing the number of youth advisory councils to influence policy making, an answer that is deeply connected to the preceding one. The youth of the EU also expressed that they are in need of alternative, improved access to voting, such as online voting, which is accessible and very much appealing to the youth, and could potentially raise the levels of political participation of young people in Europe, resulting in them being more visible and involved in the decision-making.
Some individuals shared some additional written comments that they wrote, as extra to the already provided options. These included recommendations regarding local youth involvement, in municipalities and local communities and better gender policies and gender mainstreaming to be enacted.
Table 3
Young people’s priorities
What seems to bethemost significant issueforyoungpeopleresidingin theEuropean Union today, is the education and employment opportunities. 63.9% of 360 respondents highlighted the imperative need of having the possibility to get adequately educated so that they can improve job prospects and possibly achieve more high-quality living conditions. Social justice and equality were topics that were also selected by the youth as some of the most crucial ones (51,9%). The youth of the EU wish for fairness and equity to be promoted across many aspects of the society, as well as for treatment without discrimination to be ensured. As extra remarks, subjects like promoting social cohesiveness and reducing inequality gaps were brought up.
Healthcare and mental health support appears to be another issue that concerns young people throughout the European Union (45%). Young people are left in the dark without the help and comfort they need due to obstacles including lengthy waiting lists, a lack of resources, and expensive mental health care.
Matters of climate change and environmental protection (39.7%), and refugee rights were rated as important, albeit with slightly lower percentages; the latter had the lowest response rate, at 21.9%.
Table 4
Approachable EU politics for the youth
Young people were urged to share what the solutions are in order for them to better understand and engage with European politics. The majority (56.4%) responded that the best option for them are the joint initiatives and collaborative projects between schools and governments so that civic education and engagement is advanced and promoted. This response demonstrates the imperative need for the initial engagement stages to take place early in school environments in order for the EU’s youth to be aware of the European Union’s politics and policies. This, though, is suggested to be accomplished by practical and realistic means, via actual project implementation between educational institutions and national authorities.
Cultural exchange programs across European countries for cross-border understanding to be fostered received a 51.4% rating in the second place as well as more educational programs in schools regarding the EU anditsinstitutionsweretwosuggestionsthatreceived a 50.8% rating in the third place of the youth’s selections. Youth-friendly online platforms for information and resource access as well as frequent town hall meetings and forums for young people to connect with legislators earned lower response rates
Table 5
The role of young people
The young people of Europe expressed what roles they believe should play in shaping the futureofEurope. Morespecifically,thevast majority with 66.1%suggestedthattheyshould be active participants in decision-making processes. Informal discussions, consultation sessions, surveys and youth council and forums are some suggestions that could inspire the role of young people into participating in the decision making. Through this active role young people would be more likely to increase their confidence and have greater involvement and responsibility in the future.
Others highlighted that their position should be more innovative, centered around coming up with fresh ideas, acting as leaders, and serving as advocates for constructive change What is interesting to mention is the fact that the role of the collaborator with older generations so that to address pressing issues received a lower rate. This shows the lack of faith in a smooth and productive cooperation with the older generations, for various reasons, such as different generation’s values, beliefs and behaviors that clash with those of the older age groups.
Table 6
Supporting young activists and changemakers
Young people were urged to share their thoughts and ideas on how to sufficiently support young activists and changemakers adequately enough so that actual change within the EU is achieved. The best-rated solution they provided (63.1%) was about ensuring funding for youth-led projects and initiatives. The youth of the European Union see that financial assistance can indeed have a significant effect in securing and acquiring greater funds for higher-quality and meaningful projects and interventions. Additionally, 50% shared that what the young activists and changemakers need is acknowledging and validating their efforts and work by relevant policymakers and institutions, so thatthey are more empowered and respected by not only their peers, but also the general public.
Mentorship and guidance from experienced activists and leaders were the least popular response (40.3%), correlating it with the previously noted lack of trust to their older generations of more experienced policymakers and officials, with whom their beliefs and ways of thinking are in conflict with.
Table 7
Open-ended Questions
Issues that young people face in Europe
There were a variety of answers to this question, where young people had to express the most pressing issues that they currently face as European Citizens, that they ought to be addressed by decision-makers. The most prevalent answers at this section had to do with unemployment, climate change and lack of habitation. More specifically:
● Youth unemployment
In many European countries, unemployment among young people is significantly higher than among other demographic groups. Furthermore, very low wages deteriorate the living conditions of young people, who feel that their skills and education are not valued and respected.
● Climate change and environmental sustainability
The increased concern about climate change, environmental degradation and the uncertainty for the well-being of future generations.
● Housing crisis
Many young Europeans face challenges accessing affordable housing, particularly in urban areas where they can find better job opportunities. Investment in policies where the housing market is more affordable was deemed crucial.
Other pressuring issues mentioned by the young people in the EU were mental health challenges and high anxiety and depression rates, as well as feelings of hopelessness, the fact that current youth is passive and ignorant when it comes to social issues, racism, xenophobia and their correlation with the rise of far-right movements, war involvement, quality of education, fake news and media propaganda, drug abuse and gender and social injustice and inequality.
Measures to be taken
Young people were also asked to mention what particular policies or reforms they believe are required to better their lives and prospects as EU residents. Once again, the respondents’ opinionsvaryandhavedifferentdepthsinregardstothesocial,politicalandeconomicissues
they concern. Investing in education was mentioned by many individuals in regards to ensuring equitable access to quality education for all young people and focusing on 21stcentury skills and vocational trainings.
Additional policies that need change, according to the young people of Europe, include promoting youth employment through the creation of stable, quality employment opportunities, the encouragement of paid internship and mentorship programs, in order to facilitate entry into the workforce. Affordable access to mental health care was also frequently mentioned, and in general establishing accessible mental health services to help young people cope with psychological and emotional challenges. Combating inequalities throughtheimplementationofpoliciesthatreduce socio-economicinequalitiesandadvocate for equal opportunities, was another recommendation made by the youth.
In general, the majority of respondents expressed a shared opinion about the adoption and implementation of creative policies that will actually affect the lives of young people and have a real impact, as well as policies that control their wellbeing and promote a respectful way of living.
Personal Testimonies and Experiences
The final question posed to the youth of the European Union asked if they had any personal stories to share about difficulties they had encountered as young people living in Europe that they thought policy makers ought to know about. What is worth mentioning is the fact that many individuals did not answer this question, and simply wrote one-word answers. Nevertheless, the individuals that did provide answers to this last section, shared very powerful and significant aspects that decision-makers should not only be aware of, but also take specific measures for. More specifically, the participants of this survey emphasized on the lack of opportunities for the young people that graduate their university studies. They revealed that many job posts with decent salaries that will allow them to cover their basic expenses and rent, require skills and qualifications that they do not hold as recent universitygraduates. This results in most young people not being able to have respectable living conditions, impacting their ability to be financially independent, make plan for their future and find faith in the European youth policies. As a consequence, in order to obtain
employment and be able to subsist, a large number of young people relocate to other cities, more affordable ones, or even other countries.
A common experience of many survey participants was also the lack of respect they receive, regarding their decisions and their shared ideas, from within their families to their local communities. One testimony shared a negative experience in which the person communicated their ideas and thoughts with the local community leaders but was excluded from the actual implementation and execution.
The absence of effective mental health treatment is another issue that the youth of Europe wish decision-makers would focus on more. As previously stated, many young people face mental health challenges and European policies seem to not take into account that, besides only severe cases. Topics such as gender inequality and racism were also prevalent among the answers that the EU youth provided. Numerous respondents included their unfavorable experiences within school, where they described how educational institutions in different parts of Europe have very different standards, which leaves some young people, from the Balkans for instance, as it was stated, with less qualifications than their peers, and therefore less opportunities even after high-school graduation, prior pursuing their university studies.
Conclusions
The survey aimed to gather insights from young people in the European Union on enhancing democracy, addressing key issues, improving political engagement, shaping the future, and supporting activists. In the survey, there were both multiple-choice and open-ended questions, and the answers were divided into these two categories. Responses were gathered using multiple-choice questions, with open-ended questions enabling participants to discuss their satisfaction levels, negative attitudes, and challenges they faced as young EU citizens.
Responses highlighted the need for increased funding for youth-led initiatives, better education and employment opportunities, accessible mental health care, and policies to address housing, climate change, and social justice. Young people emphasized the importance of early civic education, active participation in decision-making, financial support for initiatives, and the validation of their efforts by policymakers. Personal
testimonies underscored challenges in finding suitable employment post-graduation, lack of respect for ideas, and inadequate mental health support.
Young people were encouraged to share suggestions in order to better comprehend and participate in European politics. In response, the majority said that cooperative projects and combined efforts between governments and schools were theirbest options, and they offered reasonable and workable solutions. Programs for cross-border cultural exchange between EuropeannationsandadditionalcurriculuminschoolsabouttheEUanditsinstitutionscame in close second. Response rates were lower for youth-friendly online information and resource portals, regular town hall events, and forums that allowed young people to interact with lawmakers.
It was also discussed how young people will shape Europe's future. The majority recommended that they take an active role in decision-making procedures, including unofficial meetings, consultations, surveys, and youth forums and councils. Innovative stances, working with elder generations, and encouraging young activists and changemakers were some other recommendations.
Furthermore, the survey asked young people in the European Union to express pressing issues they face as European citizens, including youth unemployment, climate change, and lack of habitation. Youth unemployment is significantly higher than other demographic groups, with low wages deteriorating their living conditions. Concerns about environmental sustainability and climate change are particularly important because of the uncertainty they provide for the welfare of future generations. Housing crisis is another pressing issue, with many young Europeans facing challenges accessing affordable housing in urban areas. Mental health challenges, high anxiety and depression rates, feelings of hopelessness, passive ignorance about social issues, racism, xenophobia, war involvement, quality of education, fake news and media propaganda, drug abuse, gender and social injustice and inequality are also pressing concerns.
To improve their lives and prospects as EU residents, young people suggested investing in education, promoting youth employment through stable, quality employment opportunities, encouraging paid internships and mentorship programs, and providing affordable access to
mental health care. Combating inequalities through policies that reduce socio-economic inequalities and advocate for equal opportunities was another recommendation made by the youth.
Personal stories shared by the youth of the European Union highlighted the lack of opportunities for young people who graduate from university studies, with many job posts requiring skills and qualifications not held by recent graduates. This results in poor living conditions, financial independence, and financial instability. Many young people relocate to other cities or countries to find employment and subsist.
It was typical to see young people's decisions and ideas treated with little respect, and some ofthem wereleftout oftheplanning and executionprocess. Concerns about effectivemental health care also arose because many young people in Europe lack access to mental health services and European policies fail to take these issues into account. Young respondents were also rife with racism and gender inequality, with disparities in educational standards across Europe's institutions leaving certain youths less qualified and with less prospects.
In conclusion, the survey aimed to provide valuable insights into the perspectives of young people in the European Union on how to make the EU's democracy more inclusive, address pressing issues, and support young activists and changemakers. By addressing these issues and providing necessary support, the survey aims to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for young people in the EU.
Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
Survey conducted and analyzed by:
