From the 24 to 25 November, Alexandra Ruivo Cordeiro (AFS Portugal) has represented EFIL at the European Youth Forum Council of Members (COMEM) in the European Youth Capital for 2018, Cascais, Portugal.
Key highlights included the adoption of a policy paper on the future of the Erasmus+ programme, unanimously voted for by COMEM delegates. The policy paper outlines the need for more and better educational and volunteering opportunities with the involvement of a strong youth sector. The COMEM also voted to pass a resolution on key issues concerning European Youth, especially marginalised youth – submitted by Youth of European Nationalities (YEN). In addition, delegates voted through a motion in support of the Minority SafePack Initiative, also brought to the agenda by YEN.
The European Youth Forum was also very pleased to welcome many special guests to address the COMEM. Head of the Youth Department at the Council of Europe, Antje Rothemund, was present to give an inspiring keynote speech looking back at the progress that has been made for youth rights in Europe and highlighting the challenges that remain. A public debate on “The role of young people leading global change” also took place with Portuguese Secretary of State, João Paulo Rebelo, Executive Director for Youth Cooperation at the North-South Centre of the Council of Europe, Antònio Gamito and former Vice-President of the European Youth Forum, UK MP Lloyd Russel-Moyle.
by the European Youth Forum