Study on models of youth participation in decision-making processes at the local level

We are proud to present the first publication of our Study on models of youth participation in decision-making processes at the local level.

The publication was a result of the study, which is conducted by YP Lab, a resource and mobility centre within DYPALL Network with the focus on research development and capacity building in the field of local youth participation. One of our objectives is to develop structures and mechanisms for youth participation in decision-making at local level as well as to identify best practices and introduce innovative approaches to public governance in cooperation with local authorities and civil society organizations active in the youth field.

Therefore, we have developed this case study to map:
• the existing structures and mechanisms of youth participation in decision-making processes in the local governance;
• educational projects, initiatives, and tools that prepare young people to participate in the political life at the local level.

The case studies presented in this publication are the result of the mapping process done within “Youth Participation Matters”, a long-term project implemented by DYPALL Network in cooperation with ARS for Progress of People (Belgium), CID (North Macedonia), Europe4Youth (Poland) and FRG Campania (Italy), in the framework of Erasmus + Key Action 2: Cooperation for the exchange of good practices, managed by the Portuguese National Agency.

The project brought together various civil society organisations, municipalities, researchers, youth workers, youth leaders and
young people to discuss the importance and share practices of youth participation in decision-making at the local level around
Europe.

The Study gathers various practices of structures, initiatives and tools for local youth participation from around Europe. We hope it will inspire the readers to explore different participatory methodologies for increasing the sense of belonging and engagement of youth in local democracies.

Our case study is an ongoing process. If you would like to contribute with new inputs, please visit this page