DEVELOPMENT NEEDS YOUTH !

3rd 0 1 EDITION 2 0 3

Editorial team Contents

Editor in Chief – Editors – James Higgins, Julie Teng, Vania Freitas Introduction 5 Copy Editor – Klavdija Cernilogar Assistant Editor – Thomas Spragg Graphic Design – Laurent Doucet Part I - Youth : More than just development targets 7 1.1 State of the (young) World 10 1.2 Which Role for Youth Organisations ? 12 1.3 The Youth Forum and European Development Policy : 30 Years of Action ! 14

European Youth Forum Part II - (Youth) Development Policy 18 120, rue Joseph II 2.1 The Millennium Development Goals are Youth Development Goals 19 1000, Bruxelles 2.2 Sustainable Development Policies (and Actors) 23 – Belgique Part III - Youth (Development) Policy 30 with the support of : 3.1 Mainstreaming Gender and environment 33 the European Commission 3.2 Education 34 the European Youth Foundation of the 3.3 Health, SRHR and HIV/AIDS 41 3.4 Employment and Poverty 45 3.5 Peace and Conflict Prevention 50 3.6 Environment & Climate Change 51 3.7 Migration 54

ISSN : 2032–9938 Conclusions : From Words to Action ! 57 List of Acronyms 59 References 60

2010 4 5

List of Boxes

// Kumi Naidoo (Greenpeace International) // Which role does the European Youth Forum play ? INTRODUCTION // Eva Joly and role of the EU // EU policies and programmes for development cooperation and sustainable development TO THE NEW EDITION open to Youth Organisations // 1% Solidarity Fund of the European Youth Forum

List of Projects This is the third edition of Development Although some progress is being made to- Needs Youth ! and it comes at an impor- wards the Millennium Development Goals, AEGEE-Europe : MDGs – A Challenge for Today’s Youth ? tant time for development policy and in some ways little has changed for young EYCE : Campaign to Promote Ecological Justice young people internationally. Since the people around the world. In developing SAJV/CSAJ : Youth for Development last edition, published in 2009, there have countries millions of young people suffer DNYC : Youth Representatives been significant developments in core de- from hunger and starvation, with over one WAGGGS : Together we can change the World velopment areas. billion hungry people in 2010, mainly due IFM-SEI : Peers without Frontiers : Youth for the MDGs to conflict, climate change, unstable liveli- Introduction CNJ : Roteiro 3456 At a time when the environmental and hu- hood systems and poor governance.1 Wars WOSM : Inter-regional Cooperation in Africa, the Arab States and Eurasia man cost of climate change became more and conflict continue to disproportionately IFMSA : HIV Education for Youth and more evident, world leaders dramati- affect the young ; many young people con- LSU : Tackling Poverty Together cally failed to reach an accord and agree tinue to go without basic primary educa- SCI : Handcrafting Opportunities on a climate deal that would replace the tion and the rate of HIV infection outstrips Don Bosco Youth Network : You(th) for Human Rights Kyoto Protocol at the the expansion of treatment. : Thematic Study Sessions Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen NYCI : Zambia-Ireland Exchange in December 2009. This is despite the fact The past 12 months have also presented that young people were more organised numerous opportunities for youth to ex- and vocal than ever in the run up to the press themselves politically and young peo- Conference and during the negotiations ple internationally have proved themselves themselves. The past year has also been a up to the challenge. At the World Youth difficult year for young people globally in Conference in Leon, Mexico in August 2010 terms of employment with the global finan- an NGO declaration, led by youth NGOs, cial crisis creating a youth unemployment called for a rights-based approach to de- crisis in Europe and pushing millions of velopment policies, to invest in education young people into poverty in the develop- and jobs for young people internationally, ing world. recognise young people’s sexual repro- ductive health and rights in the context of

1.Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN, 2010. The State of Food Insecurity in the World [online] . Available at www.fao.org/docrep/013/i1683e/i1683e.pdf [Accessed 12 November 2010] 6 7

health and HIV prevention and identify the As part of the Year young people have been root causes identifying in preventing the active promoting the ideals of peace, free- achievements of the MDGs, with youth as dom, youth development and working on an active partner. the ground in combating hunger in their communities, the HIV/AIDS pandemic and In December 2009 the United Nations the protection of the environment. This General Assembly agreed on the need to new edition aims to provide more facts further disseminate among young peo- and examples on initiatives and process- ple the ideals of peace, respect for hu- es that youth organisations are undertak- man rights and fundamental freedoms, ing at various levels, from the grassroots solidarity and dedication to the objectives to the national and the global scale. Young of progress and development, includ- women and men are full agents in their ing the Millennium Development Goals communities and societies. Nevertheless, PART I and adopted a resolution proclaiming the targeting youth in development policies is International Year of Youth : Dialogue and still not being sufficiently addressed. While Mutual Understanding, commencing on 12 recognition of their value is growing, much August 2010.2 needs to be done.

Introduction YOUTH : MORE THAN JUST DEVELOPMENT TARGETS

2.United Nations Resolution A/RES/64/134 of 18 December 2009 of Proclamation of 2010 as International Year of Youth [online] New York. Available at www.un.org/en/ga/64/resolutions.shtml [Accessed 7 August 2010] 8 9

tackling poverty at the beginning of a per- The issue of sustainability must always be son’s life ; such targeted policies contribute considered when addressing youth. Often to break the vicious cycle of poverty repeat- the positions of young people are not ad- 1.1 STATE OF THE ed from generation to generation. equately addressed in measures and poli- cies traditionally pursued, for example (YOUNG) WORLD economic growth largely dependent upon What issues do youth face ? the unsustainable use of a country’s natu- ral resources is often not thought of as a According to the World Youth Report 2005 youth issue. In such cases, fewer resources “ Young people today, and in 2015 ”, 209 are left for future generations and indeed, Why does youth matter ? The lack of global consensus on how to million young people between the ages of for the young when they reach adulthood. tackle climate change and international 15 and 24 (approximately 18 percent of There are a number of reasons why young economic instability are far from being the world’s population), live on less than Likewise, if economic policies designed to P

people deserve special consideration with mutually exclusive issues for young peo- US$1 a day. 515 million (almost 45 per reduce poverty do not target the informal I - Youth art regards to international development. The ple. Climate change is a reality and the en- cent) live on less than US$2 a day. 130 mil- economy (i.e. the trade of goods outside most prevalent and striking is arguably that vironmental instability that comes with it lion are illiterate, 10 million live with HIV, the state-controlled economy and not in-

: it is young people that suffer disproportion- is already being felt harshly by young peo- and 88 million are unemployed. cluded in the Gross National Product) ; M ore than just development targets development just than ore ately in relation to poverty and hunger glob- ple. Without adequately tackling climate The forms of poverty endured by young fewer young people will in turn be reached. ally. The global financial crisis has severely change, poverty reduction strategies and people, and their consequences, can be This is due to the fact that young people hampered efforts to tackle global poverty, international diplomacy in order to prevent different for them than for other groups in and women make up the bulk of the work- orethan just development targets

M resulting in a spike in hunger rates in devel- armed conflicts may become piecemeal. society. For example, the importance given force in the informal economy, e.g. street :

oping countries, again with young people More people are today being displaced due to the distribution of resources for educa- vendors, unregistered home-based busi- among the worst affected. This crisis has to environmental disasters, both natural tion and health, as well as the distribution nesses etc. If the size of the informal econ-

artYouth - I also resulted in the highest youth employ- and man-made, than by war. Young people of land, would most likely be different if omy remains large, with a high number of P ment rates on record, this time not just lim- in the world also continue to be dispropor- young people are considered. This is par- low quality jobs still existing, then it is less ited to developing countries as young peo- tionately affected as victims of both armed ticularly the case when considering young likely that those working within this part of ple in Western Europe and North America conflicts and environmental disasters.4 women as they face multiple discrimina- the economy will benefit sufficiently from struggle to find work and financial stabil- tion and are often expected to do unpaid economic growth and increased productiv- ity. In developing economies it may prolong When it comes to development it is clear domestic work. ity. Working in the informal economy also the cycle of poverty for at least another that youth needs to be prioritised. Therefore means that they have less opportunity to generation while in Europe many political young people must be specifically targeted increase their income, to receive training, leaders are concerned about the economic and involved in relevant policy-making, or and to benefit from social protection. and social impacts of a “ lost generation of it will not be possible to eradicate pover- young people ”.3 ty and achieve sustainable development. Moreover, as tackling youth poverty implies

3. International Labour Organization, 2010. Global Employment Trends for Youth [online] Geneva. Available www.ilo.org/empelm/what/pubs/lang--en/docName--WCMS_143349/index.htm [Accessed 13 October 2010] 4. Weston, B.H. and Bach, T., Recalibrating the Law of Humans with the Laws of Nature : Climate Change, Human Rights and Intergenerational Justice [online] Vermont, Iowa [Published 2009] Available at http ://international.uiowa.edu/centers/human-rights/documents/CLI_Policy_Paper.pdf [Accessed 29 September 2009] 10 11

“ W e are going to need the imagina- tion and the creativity of even more such young heroes ”

Kumi Naidoo, Executive Director, Greenpeace International

I was fifteen years old when I first began in particular, young people. I first saw this We must all work to ensure that today’s Right at this moment, millions of young fighting injustice. It was the vision of equal in the anti-Apartheid struggle, later as an youth do not slide into the cynicism that volunteers are engaged in the struggle for education in apartheid that anti-Poverty activist and today as the head prevents so many adults from speaking climate justice around the world. But given P

made me stand up, demand justice and of Greenpeace. Dissatisfied with the way out and getting involved. We must do our the struggles we face, we are going to need I - Youth art equality and put my own comfort on the things are going, young people around the best to enable today’s youth so that they the imagination and the creativity of even line (I was subsequently expelled from globe are standing up, calling for change may breathe new energy into what, in most more such young heroes. I am convinced

: school). And it was there, on the streets and demanding justice. Young volunteers places, has become a stale and moribund that in the face of the enormous struggles M ore than just development targets development just than ore of Chatsworth, Durban with my fellow stu- are ready to be seen not as tomorrow’s public life. We must work very hard to en- we currently face – an ongoing poverty cri- dents and friends, that I realised many of leaders, but as the leaders of today. able them to be able to contribute their sis, a financial crisis and a climate crisis the amazing possibilities inherent in Civil voices, their enthusiasm and their engage- all challenging us simultaneously – it is orethan just development targets

M Society : the power we have as simple in- Take climate change, which is the most ment. Failing to engage the world’s young the young who have the greatest scope for :

dividuals when we come together and act ; pressing problem the world has ever faced. people would mean squandering the enor- the action, innovation and creative engage- the things we can learn when we take the It is becoming increasingly clear that young mous potential that active youth participa- ment the world so desperately needs.

artYouth - I time to listen to one another ; the strong people understand better than anyone tion has to offer in our fight to achieve a P friendships we form when we are joined in what is at stake - perhaps this is because fair and sustainable future for this and fu- the struggle for a just cause and the satis- they are the ones who will have to live with ture generations. We cannot allow that to faction we receive from knowing that we are the consequences of whatever decisions happen. doing the right thing. Getting involved as an we make today. Let’s remember the ques- activist at a young age set me on a path of tion that was emblazoned on many T-Shirts lifelong political involvement and made me worn by young members of the Global who I am today. Campaign for Climate Action delegation in Copenhagen last year : ‘How old will you be History shows us that terrible things can in 2050 ?’ The message that these young happen when men and women don’t speak people were sending was clear : the future out or feel that they can’t speak out. But belongs to them, and they’re going to do history also shows us that if they do, “ or- everything they can to ensure environmen- dinary people ” have the power to create tal, social and economic justice for future extraordinary change and that includes, generations. 12 13

concerns and aspirations of young peo- these projects out themselves remain ple. Moreover, youth organisations are of- small. Consequently, the types of projects 1.2 WHICH ROLE FOR ten ready to try new and innovative ways that can be funded as well as the different of working. funding possibilities available must be di- YOUTH versified. Grants for shorter time-periods should be designed and allocated, as well Open up to youth as support for project planning and the ORGANISATIONS ? implementation of more simplified appli- The valuable contribution of youth organi- cation procedures. The small extra costs sations to development should be further such funding might incur would be paid Youth is a major group affected by poverty, Development assistance must be based acknowledged and strengthened. Youth back several times over by the volunteer however young people are often ignored on democratic decision-making, and the organisations must be effectively engaged work done in youth organisations. In the on the development agendas. Investing UN General Assembly clearly asks for the in the formulation, implementation and long run, more and more youth organisa- P

in youth is fundamental to development. inclusion of youth organisations in de- monitoring of development strategies and tions would also have built up the capac- I - Youth art Youth needs to be mainstreamed into pov- velopment policy-making. Yet, in a large actions and provided with the adequate ity to get support through existing funding erty reduction strategies and the concerns number of countries of the world young support to undertake their work. Youth or- programmes, thus increasing the efforts

: related to youth poverty should be fully people are traditionally excluded from ganisations must also benefit from funding and actors contributing to the achievement M ore than just development targets development just than ore integrated in the development actions, in- such processes. If engaged with correctly, opportunities to carry out their own devel- of the MDGs. cluding the priorities defined in the World partnerships with youth organisations can opment initiatives. This will enable them to Programme of Action for Youth. bring much needed experience, knowledge, fulfil their role and responsibility as devel- Unless opportunities exist that allow youth orethan just development targets

M and perspectives to the implementation opment actors. organisations to start obtaining funding for :

The problem of youth poverty cannot be and planning of development actions and development cooperation, the direct step solved by merely targeting youth to a great- programmes. Access to funding continues to be one to “ conventional funding ” might often be

artYouth - I er extent. Young people also need to be of the major obstacles for youth organi- too hard to take. Apart from some, usually P considered as actors who can make valu- sations to develop their capacity as de- non-governmental, funding opportunities able contributions to policy-making as well Agents of change velopment actors. Governments and for youth groups, there are also a few cas- as during the implementation of projects. International Institutions have a major role es in which National Youth Councils have Even if policies do target young people and Several development actors are increasing- to play in increasing and making more ac- taken the initiative by getting development accord them due consideration, those de- ly realising that young people are not only cessible the funding opportunities to youth agencies to channel some funding through termining the policies must understand the targets but also agents of change. However, organisations. them to youth organisations. realities faced by young people today. This much still remains to be done. Youth or- does not only require more research on ganisations across the world have already Funding through development assistance youth poverty, but also a more general un- shown that this is possible. They are impor- programmes is usually not available to derstanding of the needs and aspirations tant actors because their constituencies, youth organisations and thus development of those affected – and the ones who know young people, have a much higher under- agencies are losing the possibility of reap- this best are young people themselves. standing of volunteering and a belief in the ing the full potential of youth volunteering need and possibilities to change the world. and engagement. While there are more and Their role is crucial because representative more projects targeting youth, the pos- structures are indispensable to voice the sibilities of youth organisations carrying 14 15

Cooperation, Humanitarian Aid and Crisis the MDGs was taken by signing a formal 1.3 THE YOUTH FORUM Response, Edgard Pisani and an independ- partnership with the Millennium Campaign ent evaluation of the Lome III Convention of the UN in June 2006. AND EUROPEAN was produced in 1985. Cooperation with the European Commission DEVELOPMENT POLICY : ACP-EC Youth Cooperation (1986-1995) : continued with the negotiations for the Thanks to the previous involvement of the Cotonou Agreement in 2000 and led to the Forum, youth organisations from Africa, inclusion of the youth article (art. 26) and, 30 YEARS OF ACTION ! the Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries in 2005, to its further improvement with the started a consolidated process of coopera- revision of the Partnership Agreement. YFJ The work of the European Youth Forum consider all aspects of the qual- tion in 1986 with young Europeans, work- contacts with the European Parliament led has resulted in important achievements in ity of life. Development de- ing together to ensure that the voice of the Development Committee, in September development policies, particularly in that pends on altering power rela- young people was heard in the Lome pro- 2007, to start a study on the impact of EU P

they should take into account the needs of tionships in society, improving cess. The result of the subsequent lobbying Development Policies on young people, cur- I - Youth art young people. Since its establishment in the ability of people to enjoy work was the concrete reference to youth in rently under preparation. Further, in 2007, 1978, the Forum (back then called “ Youth maximum participation in de- the Lome IV Convention. This cooperation Commissioner Louis Michel invited the YFJ

: Forum of the European Communities ”) de- cision making, strengthening was further formalised with the organisa- to join the Civil Society Stakeholders Group M ore than just development targets development just than ore cided to have development co-operation as political and economic self-re- tion of three joint Assemblies of the ACP- within DG Development. one of its core areas of interest. liance and independence, as EC Youth (1990, 1993, and 1995) and with well as ensuring the extension the continuous request for the recognition During this last phase, the European Youth orethan just development targets

M Activities can be summarised into three of social rights such as educa- of young people as partners in all areas of Forum was actively involved in the organi- :

periods : tion. A prerequisite must be to competence of the Convention. sation of the first Africa-Europe Youth ensure that all basic human Summit which took place in Lisbon from 5 artYouth - I Youth Forum and EC Development needs are fulfilled. 5 to 7 December 2007 and the follow-up P Cooperation (1978-1985) : A first reso- Global Cooperation (1996-2008) : With of the EU-Africa Joint Strategy. The Youth lution was adopted in 1979 and gave the Of course this definition needs to be read the merging of the three existing European Summit was organised in partnership with base to start to advocate for a stronger role today taking into consideration the politi- Youth Platforms in 1996, YFJ widened the the North-South Centre of the Council of of NGOs and Youth in development coop- cal and historical moment in which was scope of its action in development coop- Europe, the Portuguese Youth Council, eration. At the Youth Forum’s Executive released. Nevertheless, this agreement eration. Cooperation was enlarged to other the Pan-African Youth Union, and other Committee in November 1982, the mem- laid the basis for the political action of the regions beyond the ACP, with the inclusion national and international youth organisa- bers agreed on the following definition of Forum in following years. Between 1982 of Latin America, Asia and the Arab World tions, with the support of the European development : and 1985, seminars were organised and po- in the Global Co-operation Co-ordination Commission and the Portuguese govern- sition papers were drafted, positioning the Committee, a tool to work with YFJ partners ment. The European Youth Forum has also We believe development is a Youth Forum of the European Communities in other continents. Since 1997, YFJ has been involved in the European Civil Society concept which transcends a as a credible actor in development coop- devoted 1% of its annual budget to finance Organisation Steering Group for the im- crude equation with increases eration. Close contacts were established youth-led development projects carried out plementation and monitoring of the Joint in national income, but should with the Commissioner for International by its partner organisations in the different Africa-EU Strategy and its Action Plan. regions of the world. Furthermore, a spe-

5. Youth Forum of the European Communities (1982) Youth Forum’s views and proposals regarding the European Community’s Contribution to development, adopted cial commitment on the implementation of at the Executive Committee 5-6 November 1982 16 17

Active steps were also taken to strengthen Youth Organisation and the North-South the cooperation with the Arab region. In Centre of the Council of Europe. Preceding November 2009, in Assilah, Morocco, the the VI EU-LAC Summit of Heads of State 3rd League of Arab States Youth Forum and Government, the First EU-LAC Youth Which role does took place, focused on the theme “ Youth Summit gathered 167 youth representa- and Migration : A Human Rights Based tives from 38 countries of Europe, Latin the European Youth Forum play ? Approach ”. In July 2010 the European America and the Caribbean region. The Youth Forum also co-organised, togeth- Summit concluded with a written decla- er with the Italian National Youth Forum, ration adopted by youth delegates that the Directorate of Youth and Sport of the urged their governments and international Council of Europe and the League of Arab institutions to take into consideration the The European Youth Forum and many of its In addition, the YFJ is cooperating within States the Euro-Arab Youth Conference valuable contribution that young people Member Organisations, both international the International Coordination Meeting of “ Mare Nostrum : Youth, Migration and and youth organisations can give to the youth organisations and national youth Youth Organisations (ICMYO – www.icmyo. P

Development ”. dialogue and cooperation between these councils, have been working on develop- net) which brings together regional youth I - Youth art regions on regional and global issues and ment issues for a long time. This is done platforms and international youth organi- During this period the European Youth to the further development of the EU-LAC through working with international institu- sations with a global outreach.

: Forum was committed to strengthen the strategic partnership. tions and governments, and advocating for M ore than just development targets development just than ore cooperation with Asia as well, carrying the achievement of the MDGs, in coopera- on fruitful exchanges and enhanced co- tion with other youth organisations from all operation on youth policy development over the world. orethan just development targets

M in both regions. The 1st EU-China Youth :

Leader Summit was held in Hangzhou Moreover, the European Youth Forum co- and Shanghai, 7-11 May 2010, co-organ- operates with other regional youth plat-

artYouth - I ised by the European Youth Forum, the All forms, and at the global level, works with- P China Youth Federation and the European in the Global Co-operation Coordination Commission. Committee (GCCC) which gathers the re- gional non-governmental youth platforms The European Youth Forum also made of Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, progress in the cooperation with Latin Latin America, and the Pacific. America and Caribbean. On 7-9 May the I EU-LAC Youth Summit took place in Fuenlabrada-Madrid, organised by the Spanish Youth Council in the framework of the EU Spanish Presidency, in partnership with the European Youth Forum, the Latin American Youth Forum, the Iberoamerican Youth Space, the Caribbean Federation of Youth Revitalisation Committee, the Spanish Youth Institute, the Iberoamerican 18 19

2.1 THE MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS ARE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT GOALS

PART II It is concerning that young people are not Accomplishing what is set out in the MDGs

considered more in development policy be- requires more resources for development P art II- (Youth) Development Development (Youth) II- art cause it is obvious that achieving already action, the revision of trade rules, and agreed commitments requires their in- debt reduction, among other actions. One volvement. The reason is simple ; the goals important element that is not often men- themselves target young people although tioned when discussing the achievement of this is not always explicitly mentioned. The the MDGs is the need to involve and tar- clearest and most important example of get young people specifically. The reason P this is the Millennium Development Goals. for doing this is simple – the Millennium olicy (YOUTH) Development Goals are clearly Youth The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Development Goals. DEVELOPMENT POLICY are a set of eight goals and 20 targets on how to halve poverty by 2015, reduce child mortality and fight epidemics.6 World lead- Goal 1 : Eradicate extreme ers committed to their achievement at the poverty and hunger United Nations General Assembly in 2000. They are time-bound, people-oriented, and About half of the young people in the progress in reaching them is easily meas- world live in poverty. If youth are given urable. Foremost, the MDGs are of impor- more consideration in poverty reduction tance because they are achievable - if they strategies, their ability to escape from pov- are taken seriously. erty at the beginning of their lives would increase - thus breaking the vicious cycle of poverty handed down from generation to generation.

6. United Nations, 2007. Student Voices Against Poverty [online] New York. Available at www.un.org/millenniumgoals/youth.shtml [accessed 11 September 2010] 20 21

Goal 2 : Achieve Universal Goal 5 : Improve Maternal Goal 7 : Ensure 2010 MDG Summit 7 Primary Education Health Environmental Sustainability The 2010 United Nations Summit on the It is obviously of extreme importance for Pregnancy is the leading cause of death It is young people and their children that Millennium Development Goals took place young people to complete their education among women aged 15-19. Moreover, be- will have to deal with the consequences on 20-22 September, concluding with the if they are to be able to escape poverty. cause of gender-based violence (i.e. do- of not taking environmental sustainabil- adoption of a Global Action Plan to achieve Youth organisations can support this goal mestic violence, rape, trafficking, and sexu- ity seriously today, as many of the effects the eight anti-poverty goals by their 2015 by providing volunteer tutoring and non- al harassment) young mothers are a group of pollution will only become evident over targets. However, the most significant an- formal education. that needs special attention. the longer term (i.e. climate change). nouncement was that of a major new com- Moreover, young people often have a better mitment specifically for women’s and chil- Goal 6 : Combat HIV/ understanding of environmental problems dren’s health and other initiatives against Goal 3 : Promote Gender AIDS, Malaria, and Other and are more ready than older generations poverty, hunger and disease. Equality and Empower Diseases to take action to achieve environmental Women sustainability. The Global Action Strategy to accelerate

Each day, 6,000 young people become in- progress on women’s and children’s health P art II- (Youth) Development Development (Youth) II- art

olicy In addition to being a part of society which fected with the HIV virus – this equates to committed over US$40 billion in resources P endures a very high level of discrimination, more than half of all new HIV/AIDS cases. Goal 8 : Develop a over the next five years. In terms of human young girls across the world face many dif- This is an area in which young people are Global Partnership for life, this commitment, if properly admin- ficulties, with fewer girls than boys attend- already playing a major role, with many Development istered, has the potential of saving the ing school, fewer young women enjoying major actors having acknowledged the im- lives of more than 16 million women and paid employment, and unwanted sex being portance of young people in relation to the This is a goal that is also aimed at pro- children. P a common problem. Being a place where issue and of integrating them into their viding the means for achieving the other olicy artII- (Youth) Development P young people develop values, awareness HIV/AIDS related programmes. Youth-led goals. It is thus of significance for youth This obviously is a welcome development and actions to combat different challeng- sexual and reproductive health education that actions are taken both in general (i.e. and governments, multinational organisa- es, youth organisations have an important has proven to be effective in tackling the increasing aid) and specifically (i.e. provid- tions and individuals must continue to in- role to play. pandemic. Likewise, youth organisations ing micro-financing possibilities for youth). vest in human development not only to en- can take actions through awareness-rais- One of the targets under Goal 8 specifically sure that we achieve the development goals ing when contributing to Goals 4 and 5. deals with the importance of producing de- by 2015, but also to ensure that our future Goal 4 : Reduce Child This awareness-raising can also be carried cent and productive work for youth. This is together is stable and sustainable. Mortality out internally, as youth organisations are an issue on which youth organisations are a place where attitudes and behavioural actively working. Finally, through advocacy Infants born to teenage mothers are 80% change are frequently discussed. and awareness-raising, youth organisa- more likely to die than infants born to tions have proven to be important actors mothers between 20-29 years old. Young in changing popular attitudes and pressur- mothers therefore need to be specifically ing governments to adhere to their commit- targeted to help reduce child mortality. ments – which is crucial to Goal 8 as well as to the other MDGs.

7. http ://eee.un.org/en/mdg/summit2010/pdf/mdg%20outcome%20document.pdf 22 23

The European Students’ Forum (AEGEE-Europe) 2.2 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT POLICIES The Millennium Development Goals : A AEGEE designed this project in coopera- Challenge for Today’s Youth ? tion with the Gujarat Public School – BRG Group, AIESEC Baroda (based in Vadodara, The Millennium Development Goals and ) and the ARESTA (based in Cape the empowerment of young people are of Town, South Africa), which is composed Apart from the MDGs, there are several in- The role of civil society is, however, barely

paramount importance for AEGEE, which of four principle activities : a preliminary ternational agreements that establish the dealt with in the final Paris Declaration. P art II- (Youth) Development Development (Youth) II- art

olicy is organised in 43 European countries. As meeting held in in December framework for development policies. For ex- The youth dimension is something that P part of its MDG work, a group of young 2009 ; two case study trips to India and ample, within the Development Assistance OECD DAC in general has not worked on. people from Europe, India and South South Africa in June and September 2010 Committee (DAC) of the Organisation for The Paris Declaration nevertheless makes Africa, have joined hands across continents respectively ; and a final conference in Economic Co-operation and Development clear the increased importance of national and taken up the challenge of empowering Utrecht, The , in November (OECD), guidelines and policies are often development plans, and it has thus become young people in their countries and local 2010, to discuss findings and produce a reviewed and agreed upon in particular even more important for youth organisa- P communities. concluding message on youth contribution donor countries. The guidelines that are tions to play a role in the determination of olicy artII- (Youth) Development P to the MDGs. adopted there are expected to be followed such plans. by all OECD member countries. At a high- level summit in Paris in 2005, new guide- The largest gatherings of world leaders lines to make development assistance more that have ever taken place on the issue of effective and make the MDGs more meas- climate change were the Earth Summit urable were discussed. One hundred coun- in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and the World tries are adhering to the outcome of the Summit on Sustainable Development in meeting, known as the Paris Declaration Johannesburg in 2002. During these two on Aid Effectiveness, according to which Summits the world leaders discussed the recipient country’s influence over the how to achieve sustainable development. cooperation, and ownership of the process Development policy was therefore also an should increase, alongside improvements important issue. Youth received special in the donor country’s coordination of the recognition in these two Summits and the poverty reduction strategies. All assistance work carried out in between them. For ex- should be guided by the recipient country’s ample, youth are recognised as one of nine national development plans. major groups in the Johannesburg Summit and the annual Commission for Sustainable 24 25

Development that is following up on these effectiveness of aid delivered by the official commitments. In the Johannesburg Plan agencies. EU policies and programmes for of Implementation, youth is mentioned development cooperation and in relation to consumption and lifestyle, Development assistance is a topic that re- poverty reduction, education and the im- quires specific attention in this context. sustainable development open to plementation of sustainable development Development assistance has existed for Youth Organisations programmes. The European Youth Forum a long time, and it was civil society who is now actively working to achieve the rec- was first to take the lead on it. During the ognition of youth as a major group also in 1960s an increasing number of rich coun- the UN Framework Convention on Climate tries began to provide development assis- The EU is a major player when it comes to organisations. For more information : Change (UNFCCC). There are many devel- tance. Its direction has of course changed development assistance. Together, the EU http ://ec.europa.eu/development/policies/ opment strategies exist in operation and over time. Nowadays, there is for example and its Member States provide more than development_programmes_en.cfm as all usually tackle poverty reduction and more importance put on awareness-raising half of the total development assistance in sustainable development, they are of im- and development education in donor coun-

the world (of which a fifth is managed by // Country Programmes : The EU has rep- portance for young people, and thus, youth tries. This is an area in which youth organi- P art II- (Youth) Development Development (Youth) II- art

olicy the Commission). Consequently, EU poli- resentation in more than 120 countries in organisations should be engaged in imple- sations have an important role to play. P cies on development have a big influence the world and they play an increasingly im- menting them. on the development agenda. The inclusion portant role in programming and managing When addressing development strategies, Since the 1970s, there has been a demand of a youth article in the ACP Agreement projects. Establishing contacts and cooper- a clear differentiation should be made be- for richer countries to devote 0.7% of their and the good cooperation in the frame of ation between these offices and local youth tween international agreements and guide- Gross National Income (GNI) to develop- the EU-Africa Strategy increased the vis- organisation is of great value. For the list of lines, and national strategies of both the ment assistance. This demand has been P ibility and importance of youth issues. Country Offices : http ://ec.europa.eu/comm/ donor and recipient. Moreover, there are reiterated several times, for example in olicy artII- (Youth) Development P Nevertheless, the EU is still lagging behind external_relations/repdel/index_rep_en.cfm many other policies that are of tremen- the MDGs. So far only four countries are when it comes to acknowledging the need dous importance to development, such as fulfilling the demand and it is unlikely that for a youth dimension in its development //Youth in Action Programme : The Youth trade agreements, agricultural policies, the goal will be met unless there is strong- policies. This must be changed ! in Action Programme has a specific meas- and financial agreements. As these policies er public pressure within donor countries ure (3.2 - “ Youth in the World ”) open for could support or undermine development themselves. Nevertheless, a mere increase Below are some of the tools of the EU to in- organisations to present youth projects commitments that affect youth, they are of aid needs to be combined with proper crease cooperation of youth organisations in countries other than the neighbouring also of importance for young people. coherence among different policies ; other- with their partners in the South : countries of the EU. In 2009, the Youth in wise this will not guarantee more effective Action programme will have sustainable Achieving coherence among all these dif- results. // Development Cooperation instrument development and climate change as one ferent policies is probably one of the most (DCI) : The new thematic programmes of two of its annual priorities. For more difficult challenges for governments and When talking about national strategies (2006-2013) are now open to all Non-State information : http ://eacea.ec.europa.eu/youth/ international institutions. Overlaps and there are both strategies that are setting Actors. In particular the programmes index_en.htm contradictions between development poli- the framework for the donor country as “ Civil Society and Local Authorities in cies and others, such as trade, defence, well as strategies for the recipient country. Development ” and “ Investing in People ” environmental and migration policies, of- Increasingly, these strategies are discussed are particularly interesting for youth ten undermine the desired impact of de- between the countries concerned and they velopment cooperation and question the also depend on international commitments 26 27

such as those discussed above. As with global and national level, these are often other policies, the level to which youth are forgotten. That they even exist, however, considered differs widely between particu- constitutes a strong argument for includ- The 1% Solidarity Fund of lar donor development policies : in a few ing young people in relevant processes. the European Youth Forum cases, countries have their own overall Countries also design specific policies re- strategy and are talking about mainstream- lating to the achievement of certain com- ing youth ; in other cases, countries men- mitments. Consequently, there are for ex- tion youth in strategies that relate to child ample many national MDG-strategies and rights ; but in far too many cases, national sustainable development strategies. The European Youth Forum promotes the Since then the 1% Solidarity Fund has be- development policies do not take account principle of increasing development as- come both a tool for advocating national of youth at all. The level of discussion con- Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers (PRSPs) sistance of richer countries to even more governments to do the same and increase cerning the coherence between develop- are one such form of national strategy that than the 0,7% of their GNI, setting the the resources devoted to development co- ment policies and other policies also varies are playing an increasingly important role example that it is possible also for a Civil operation, and a tool to increase the capac- considerably. in development, having become key docu-

Society Platform to do the same. In fact, ity of its partners in the South. A specific ments in low-income countries with re- P art II- (Youth) Development Development (Youth) II- art

olicy in 1997, the European Youth Forum set up feature in the cooperation between the To enable a recipient country to put for- gards to economic and social policy. PRSPs P the 1% Solidarity Fund, which devotes 1% European Youth Forum and other platforms ward its biggest concerns and needs, and were first introduced seven years ago as of the annual budget of the Organisation is the principle of equal partnership based equally, for the donor to put forward the a requirement to get debt relief from the to development cooperation projects spe- on the specific needs of each platform. priorities of its development policy, donor World Bank and the International Monetary cifically targeted to help the sustainability This ensures that the 1% Solidarity Fund and recipient governments usually discuss Fund under their Heavily Indebted Poor and the capacity building of other regional does not become a tool to impose a unique how their development cooperation will Countries initiative. They are updated every P youth platforms and their members in oth- model of development for regional youth work. However, it is common that a do- three years and progress reports are made olicy artII- (Youth) Development P er continents. platforms. nor will also try to exert influence on the annually.8 PRSPs have received criticism for recipient on other issues e.g. pushing for not involving civil society enough in the pro- the adoption of trade agreements benefi- cess and for the economic requirements cial to the donor country itself. The degree that often accompany them. There are only of involvement of civil society in related a few cases in which youth organisations processes differs widely, as indeed it does have been involved in the PRSP-process from country to country. and where the national PRSP has a youth dimension. This is obviously a problem if The natural thing would be that the de- they are to tackle poverty. velopment strategies are coherent with other strategies and policies, such as the Millennium Development Goals and the World Programme of Action for Youth as well as national youth policies where such exist. With regards to youth policy on the

8. International Monetary Fund, 2010. Fact sheet on Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers [online] Washington. Available at www.imf.org/external/np/exr/contacts/contacts.aspx [Accessed 29 September 2010] 28 29

Ecumenical Youth Council in Europe Swiss National Youth Council (EYCE) (SAJV/CSAJ)

Campaign to Promote Ecological Justice Youth for development

Environment is one of the most challeng- Campaigns have proved to be effective Youth for development is a programme CSAJ/SAJV also offers capacity build- ing concerns for contemporary society. It tools in the work of EYCE in previous years. designed by and for youth in the field of ing activities for youth organisations in is clear that climate change is affecting the In 2005-2008, EYCE was running the development cooperation. Youth for devel- and does know-how transfer entire planet. Just one example of the ef- Campaign “ Youth Fighting HIV and AIDS ” opment advocates for development where activities with National Youth Councils in fects of dangerous climate change in 2010 and from 2008-2010 the “ Campaign to youth are not only the recipients of help, developing countries.

was the heavy rains in the in Overcome Fundamentalism ”. These cam- but are also independent actors and part- P art II- (Youth) Development Development (Youth) II- art

olicy July which were directly connected to paigns reached a large number of young ners. As the umbrella association of Swiss CSAJ/SAJV also runs “ East Project ” P mild winters in Baltic States. As a result people from all over Europe. As a result youth organisations, CSAJ/SAJV has be- which supports small-scale youth projects of these environmental changes there has EYCE decided to launch a 3-year campaign come familiar with the needs and concerns planned and implemented jointly by Swiss been a higher frequency of tornadoes in to promote ecological justice, which will of young people through many years of and local youth organisations in South- the Pacific in recent years. However, there run from 2011 until 2013. experience. With the support of the Swiss Eastern Europe and an Online-Tool-Kit of- is a far greater connection than simply Agency for Development and Cooperation fers online and youth friendly information P between different environments. The link The overall aim of the campaign will be to (SDC), CSAJ/SAJV carries out various pro- and knowledge about development coop- olicy artII- (Youth) Development P between ecological responsibility and the commit EYCE, its Member Organisations jects and activities that contribute to the eration topics and project planning and wealth and poverty of others should also be and individual young people to act re- development of the potential of young peo- management. considered. The effects of climate change sponsibly towards the environment and to ple in Switzerland and in target countries. and migration should also be explored as empower them to advocate for a greener The goal is the improvement of living con- should the connection between climate Europe. This will be done by raising aware- ditions for all and to the ability for young change’s impact on natural resources and ness of ecological issues in Europe, study- people to participate in important pro- military conflict and violence. ing the developments from the Kyoto and cesses. “ South Project ” for example sup- Copenhagen Climate Change Conferences ports small-scale youth projects planned It is the responsibility of each individual, and exploring the relation between ecolo- and implemented jointly by Swiss and lo- including young people, who will be the gy, economy and politics, including review- cal youth organisations in Africa, Asia and main players in future Europe and shape ing ecology issues as basis for numerous Latin-America. the world of tomorrow, to work against conflicts. the negative effects of climate change and raise awareness on environmental issues. 30 31

As young people both represent the pre- Five additional areas of concern to youth sent and the future and the key to achiev- were adopted by the UN General Assembly ing global development targets, it is vital in 2003 : Globalisation ; Information and to ensure that there is not only a youth di- Communication ; HIV/AIDS ; Conflict pre- mension in current development policies vention ; and Intergenerational relations. but also to consider the specific role of Through the implementation of WPAY and young people in individual areas, particu- regional and global dialogue and coopera- larly areas where youth are already active tion frameworks, young people and youth and working as agents of change. organisations have been able to tackle global issues, contribute to the develop- The most important framework deal- ment of coordinated and coherent policies ing specifically with young people on the and programmes and promote awareness global level is the UN World Programme raising, information sharing and capacity PART III of Action for Youth (WPAY).The WPAY fo- building. In order to properly look at the cuses on the challenges faced by young work of young people and what is required P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art people, is strongly interrelated with the for the future a closer analysis of some pri- MDGs and is the most complete example ority fields is required. of a global consensus between govern- ments to engage young people. Adopted in 1995, the WPAY is considered as the first “ global blueprint ” for developing effective P

policies for young people, with the peculiar- olicy YOUTH ity of having been drafted by young people, for young people. The document currently (DEVELOPMENT) POLICY contains 15 priorities. The original ones were Education, Employment, Hunger, Poverty, Environment, Drug Abuse, Juvenile Delinquency, Leisure-time activities, Girls and Young women and the Full and effec- tive participation of youth in the life of so- ciety and decision-making. 32 33

Dutch National Youth Council 3.1 MAINSTREAMING (DNYC) GENDER AND Youth representatives ENVIRONMENT

The Dutch National Youth Council has an Youth representatives work with a junior/ In order to achieve real equality, a rights- Another issue of huge concern is that of extensive background in youth involve- senior system. Each youth representative based approach to gender equality must lie climate change and its impact, both on ment in social and political affairs world- has a mandate for two years with one year at the heart of all youth and global devel- the environment as well as on other key wide. It endorses officially elected Youth overlap. The junior youth representative at- opment goals. This is key in order to ensure development areas. A truly sustainable ap-

Representatives to take part in internation- tends the Conference of Parties (COP) with that progress is not made at the expense proach must be taken in order to achieve P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy al conferences, such as the UN Framework an NGO accreditation whereas the senior of women, and also because the empower- the MDGs, so as to ensure that climate P Convention on Combating Climate Change youth representative is part of the official ment of girls and young women is a pre- change does not undermine the efforts and (UNFCCC). The Dutch National Youth delegation. In this way, both the continuity requisite to achieving the MDGs. Special compromise the needs of the younger and Council selects and nominates the most and the quality of the youth contribution areas to consider with regards to gender future generations. Climate change have suitable youth representative to take part are ensured. equality are decent employment and work- been particularly felt by the world’s most and actively participate in each respective ing conditions, education and the achieve- vulnerable people, as its impacts have been P

conference. ment of universal access to sexual and re- exacerbating existing problems and devel- olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P productive health and rights. In these areas opment issues such as hunger and access youth organisations are at the forefront in to water. the struggle for gender equality and youth autonomy, particularly in their role as one Only through addressing these interrelated of the main providers of non-formal educa- issues and working with those most affect- tion on these issues for young people and ed can we strive for more policy coherence further mainstreaming is required in order and a holistic vision of development. to ensure that youth is considered and con- sulted when decisions are being made.9

9. YFJ 2007, Policy Paper on Achieving Equality Between Women & Men [online] Brussels. Available at www.youthforum.org/images/stories/Documents/Human_Rights/0685-07_GEquality_final.pdf. [Accessed 10 September 2010] 34 35

3.2 EDUCATION

Education equals development. Without that can be taught by learning facts and Development is not just an issue for de- education, individuals and societies can statistics by heart. Participation has to be veloping countries : it is a global issue of not obtain the necessary knowledge and experienced and the frame for this is formal all citizens. This spirit forms the basis of competences to develop economically while education. It requires schools to see their Global Education, the education that opens

keeping social cohesion. students as partners in the educational pro- people’s eyes to the realities of the world P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy cess, by involving them in setting the curric- and that allows them to take action on P It is therefore worrying to see that many ulum and influencing their school environ- changing these realities. Global education, young people still do not even receive pri- ment, through their elected representatives. sometimes called development education, mary education. This is the case despite ed- Formal education is crucial but it is not the should be included in all formal education ucation being inscribed as a Fundamental best suited for all types of learning. It needs programmes in a learning by-doing-way, by Right in the Declaration of Human Rights, to be complemented by non-formal educa- establishing twinning projects and educa- P

as well as in the Convention on the Rights tion - an organised educational process tional exchanges to develop learning that olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P of the Child and the International Covenant which takes place alongside mainstream is not theoretical but transformative for so- on Economic Social and Cultural Rights systems of education and training, and ciety and the young people involved. Youth (ICESCR). This is an unacceptable situation does not typically lead to formal qualifica- organisations as the main providers of non- and several measures need to be taken both tions. Individuals participate on a voluntary formal education programmes are key pro- by states and by civil society. The state has basis and, as a result, take an active role viders of Global Education for young people to ensure free education for all and support in the learning process. In countries where through their programmes and activities. young people from poorer families to en- primary formal education does not reach able them to pursue education instead of the entire population, non-formal education working. More has to be invested in higher plays an important role in providing educa- education to enable young people to con- tion and skills to disadvantaged people. This tinue their studies regardless of their fam- is also an area within which youth organisa- ily’s economic situation. tions play a significant role, for example, assisting pupils through volunteer tutoring Development is often hindered by badly outside school. functioning government structures and peo- ple not being prepared for real democratic citizenship. Development is not something 36 37

for WAGGGS to take action. WAGGGS Girl Guides from Mexico and Wales have Member Organisations are also taking ac- been working together on an anti-pov- World Association of Girl Guides and tion in different ways to support the MDGs. erty project which has supported the Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) marginalized Mazahua community in As part of their national theme for the Mexico. Through the project, the girls and Triennium 2007/2010, “ Wanting, Getting young women learned about Millennium Global Action Theme to Know the World and Action ” and the im- Development Goal 1 : ending poverty and plementation of the GAT, the Association hunger through non-formal education ac- of Portuguese Guides (AGP) established tivities. They then delivered a community a project to support development in coun- service project into the Mazaua commu- As the leading voluntary organisation for Through its mission to “ enable girls and tries whose official language is Portuguese. nity, where houses are made of wood and girls and young women in the world, global young women to discover their fullest The purpose of the project is to sensitise cardboard, and families collect water from development is an important priority for potential as responsible citizens of the Girl Guides in to get involved in a well. WAGGGS. Seven in ten of the world’s hun- world ”, and building on WAGGGS’ history their community, raise awareness about the

gry are girls and young women. They are of developing non-formal educational ac- MDGs in the framework of a programme of Above are just a few examples, for further P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy also the most affected by climate change tivities to address the most important glob- education for development. By baking and information on WAGGGs’ extensive devel- P and pandemics such as AIDS and malaria al issues affecting girls and young women, selling cookies, Girl Guides were mobilised opment work can be found at www.wagggs. which continue to impact more directly on WAGGGS’ Global Action Theme is a six- to raise financial support to : rehabilitate a org the life chances of women and girls. year programme to empower and support community bakery in East Timor, improve a girls and young women to advocate, edu- school for young girls in Angola and restore However, despite the fact that investment cate and carry out community projects to- a library in Mozambique. P

in girls and young women can start a pro- wards the achievement of the Millennium olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P cess of education and care that breaks the Development Goals. (MDGs). As part of cycle of poverty, they are often not includ- the Global Action Theme, WAGGGS has de- ed or considered in the development of so- veloped a badge curriculum for its mem- lutions to these problems. Educated girls bers aged 5-18 to help them understand and young women earn more money, start the issues and how they can take action at their families later and have fewer children. local, national or global level on the MDGs ; When girls understand about their own and a toolkit funded by the European Youth health and their rights, whole communities Foundation of the Council of Europe to are healthier and safer. When girls are free help WAGGGS Member Organisations at from sexual violence, coercion and destitu- European level to get involved. Specific tion they are free from sexually transmitted programmes on the eradication of poverty infections including HIV. When they are ed- and hunger, protecting the environment, ucated on sexual and reproductive health, HIV/AIDS and girls’ empowerment have their children are born healthy. been developed following a survey of our members to identify which of the MDG is- sues they believe to be the most important 38 39

The International Falcon Movement – Socialist Education International The Portuguese National Youth (IFM-SEI) Council (CNJ)

Peers without Frontiers : Youth for the MDGs Roteiro 3456

Peers without frontiers is a global project work more effectively at local level. Of the Millennium Development Goals, Roteiro 3456 is an ongoing project which aiming to set up a network of young people The young people involved in the project goal three of promoting gender equality, aims to strengthen the presence of the actively contributing to the achievement shared approaches to peer education and goal four of reducing child mortality, goal MDGs related to sexual and reproductive of the Millennium Development Goals. developed peer education projects in their five of improving maternal health and goal health and rights (SRHR) on the political By training and supporting a network of local communities, focusing on youth con- six of combating HIV, AIDS, malaria, and agenda and public opinion, with a special P olicy peer educators in 17 International Falcon tribution to the achievement of the MDGs. other diseases relate most closely to sexu- focus on the response to the WHO Strategy art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art P Movement Member Organisations world- As a result of the project, IFM-SEI are also al, reproductive health and rights. They are Document adopted by the Portuguese wide IFM-SEI were able to support them to developing a set of peer education materi- also the most difficult to achieve and pose Cooperation. The activities proposed by als on the MDGs. significant challenges not only to political the project aim to broaden and deepen and community leaders, but also human- the scope of intervention for the develop- kind as a whole. The achievement of these ment of education in SRHR in its approach goals require the improvement in services to human rights awareness and solidarity, P artIII- (Development)Youth olicy P and infrastructure related to : family plan- namely among young people. Several re- ning ; maternal care, equal opportunities ; cent commitments reinforce the relevance women’s rights ; HIV/AIDS prevention pro- of this approach, namely the initiatives grammes ; sexual education. They also re- of the Portuguese-speaking Countries quire political and social progress on equal Community (CPLP) related to issues of opportunities ; women’s rights the eradi- gender and HIV/AIDS and Health, in 2008 ; cation of all forms of violence on women, the conclusions of the meetings in the con- including Female Genital Mutilation and text of Education for Global Citizenship other harmful practices. In order to ade- and the New York Summit on the MDGs in quately tackle this myriad of issues there September 2010, among others. needs to be a strong advocacy campaign and practical activities on the ground by civil society actors. 40 41

World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) 3.3 HEALTH, SRHR

Inter-regional Cooperation in Africa, the Arab States and Eurasia AND HIV/AIDS

Interregional co-operation has been an on- Development in cooperation with six other going process for WOSM over several years, African youth NGOs. with the recently adopted work plan (2010 The right to health is stated in many in- use. It needs to be tackled from a number – 2013) of WOSM’s European Region re- Grassroots scouting is in itself a develop- ternational conventions, notably the of different approaches and including an affirming that it is a high priority for the ment activity. WOSM have a strong focus Convention on the Rights of the Child and approach that embraces gender equal- movement. on non-formal education and firmly be- the International Covenant on Economic, ity. Girls and young women are the group

lieve that education is a multi-faceted fun- Social and Cultural Rights. The health of worst affected by HIV/AIDS partly because P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy Three regions have been prioritised for damental human right. WOSM recognises children and young people, mothers and on a global level they suffer more acutely P partnerships – Africa, the Arab States and that that many children are excluded, for a the prevention of the spread of the disease from poverty. There is also evidence show- Eurasia with partnership with Africa cur- variety of reasons, from the standard for- lie at the heart of the MDGs. ing a link between gender-based violence rently receiving the most focus. In this mal education system. Non-formal educa- and the virus. Although there have been context WOSM have several projects and tion and the Scout Programme in particu- The HIV/AIDS pandemic is also one of the significant improvements in the ways that efforts going on, linked by the youth dimen- lar provide a flexible alternative to alleviate main obstacles to poverty reduction with HIV and AIDS is treated and pockets of im- P

sion and the belief in the key role of young shortcomings the formal education system 40 million people currently living with the provements in condom use and prevention, olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P people in development and the formation and enables disadvantaged young people virus and more than half of all new cases the rate of new HIV infections will continue of development policy. to gain knowledge and skills, within a value each year affecting young people. Although to outstrip the expansion of treatment until based environment. the spread of HIV appears to have stabi- a more concerted approach is made with The project is carried out in cooperation with lised in most regions, and more people are gender equality and poverty reduction at the WOSM African Regional Office (ARO) This non-formal education process surviving longer, many young people still its core. 11 and several National Scout Organisations also allows WOSM’s National Member lack the basic knowledge to protect them- from the regions that are running partner- Organisations to work towards the achieve- selves against contracting HIV. In order to Gender equality is also key to fighting many ships. The aim is to improve the quality of ment of the MDGs, including, for example, fight the HIV/AIDS pandemic, all young other health risks. Maternal health is one interregional partnerships and develop a through tackling food security in Kenya, people should not only have the right to ba- of many examples, with one woman in practical toolkit for partners. Another focus and , tackling diarrhoea sic health services and access to treatment three giving birth before the age of twenty, is the empowerment of youth leaders by and maternal health in Bolivia or promot- but also education on the virus and how to and pregnancy being the leading cause of providing training courses on inter-regional ing environmental sustainability through prevent its contraction.10 HIV/AIDS preven- death in developing countries for women partnerships as well as co-operation at a the World Scout Environment Programme. tion must involve campaigns encouraging aged 15-19. Moreover, infants born to teen- pan-regional level with other international Scouting works to create a better world, responsible sexual behaviour and condom age mothers are 80% more likely to die youth NGOs. The latest round of trainings harnessing the potential of young people was organised in the framework of the and empowering them to leave the world a

10. YFJ, 2008. Policy Paper on the Health and Well Being of Young People [online] Brussels. Available at Second African University on Youth and little better than they found it. www.youthforum.org/images/stories/Documents/Employment_and_Social_Affairs/0741-08_Final_Health_Well-being.pdf>. [Accessed 4 September 2010] 11. United Nations, 2010. The Millennium Development Goals Report [online] New York. Available at www.un.org/millenium goals> [Accessed 8 October 2010] 42 43

during their first year compared to infants There are obviously many other concerns of mothers aged 20-29.12 The chances of a for the health of young people. For exam- International Federations of child surviving increase relative to the level ple, a major proportion of young people Medical Students’ Associations of a mother’s education ; thus, if girls and across the world live in rural areas where young women have the same opportunities access to health services often needs to be as men, to continue their studies and to ameliorated. At the same time, a substan- form families later in life, infant mortality tial part of those living in urban areas live HIV Education for Youth & Greater Involvement/ Support of People living with HIV would decrease and maternal health would in slums where they are subjected to air improve. pollution, unsafe water and poor sanitation during the most vulnerable period of their The 2010 UN Summit on the Millennium life. Thus, improving the health of young IFMSA has a number of different standing The project aims to make younger gener- Development Goals further acknowledged people also requires particular attention to committees, one of which is the Standing ation more aware, not only on HIV/ AIDS the importance of gender equality with issues ranging from access to health ser- Committee on Reproductive Health includ- but also on stigma and discrimination, the announcement of commitments for vices to sanitation and pollution. Anaemia, ing AIDS (SCORA). The members of this encouraging those affected and accepting

the improvement of the health of women under-nourishment and malnutrition are committee, have different projects which them into our society and not neglecting P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy and young girls. Over US$40 billion was particularly prevalent in developing and focus on awareness raising on HIV/ AIDS, them. With these projects members of the P pledged over the next five years under the middle-income countries. These problems sexually transmitted diseases, stigma and SCORA project have realised that by work- Global Strategy for Women’s and Children’s are becoming even more pressing now with discrimination and the involvement of peo- ing together and with the support and co- Health. It has the potential of preventing the stress on natural resources, and there ple living with HIV/ AIDS, with focus on operation of all those involved the project 33 million unwanted pregnancies, protect- is an increasing imperative to address the everyone but particularly on the younger can gain significance on a global, and not ing 120 million children from pneumonia, food crisis and respect the right to food13. generation. just local, level. P

advancing the control of deadly diseases This right has also come under increased olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P and ensuring access for women and chil- economic pressure with the recent global The medical students of IFMSA SCORA dren to quality facilities and skilled health financial crisis dramatically slowing pover- have developed different projects involving workers. ty reduction efforts, resulting in a spike in raising awareness in grassroots communi- hunger rates. The right to food is a human ties in Africa and Europe, safe sex educa- Although this is welcome, there is much right and a binding obligation well-estab- tion and training people to be able to train work to be done as maternal mortality lished under international law, recognised others. The programme supports the in- continues to remain high in much of the in particular by the UN ICESCR, and must volvement of people living with HIV/AIDS developing world and, like with most of not be compromised in times of economic in its work. the other goals, although there has been a strain. reduction in child mortality since 2000, it has not been done quickly enough to reach the 2010 and will most likely fall short of the final 2015 objective.

12. Ibid 13. Defined in the General Comment N0 12 by the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as “ the right of every man, woman and child alone and in community with others to have physical and economic access at all times to adequate food or means for its procurement in ways consistent with human dignity. ” 44 45

Only through the reduction poverty and Youth organisations have a role to play in hunger can a sustainable future be real- the area of health as well ; if sexual and re- ised ; forsaking important health obliga- productive health and rights, gender equal- 3.4 EMPLOYMENT AND tions for short term economic considera- ity, environmental problems, and other tions would result in devastating long term health concerns are to be tackled, aware- POVERTY consequences. To this end the European ness-raising amongst young people is also Commission’s adopted proposals to en- needed. Through non-formal education and hance the EU’s role in global health made through working for the inclusion of these in March 2010 are a positive step and ef- issues on national curricula, youth organi- forts must be stepped up to promote uni- sations contribute significantly to this aim. versal coverage and access to health ser- In addition, many youth organisations ad- Global youth unemployment reached 13% finding employment, although this is only vices to all. vocate for these issues to be placed higher in 2009, amounting to 81 million young marginally reflected in official statistics on the political agenda, for the respect of people – the highest number ever. This with female youth unemployment stand- human rights and for greater coherence is twice as much as the unemployment ing at 13.2% compared to the male rate

15

with other policy areas (e.g. to ensure that among the general population of the world. of 12.9%. P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy trade agreements do not distort the fight In a two year period, between 2007 and P against HIV/AIDS and that economic poli- 2009, an additional 7.8 million young peo- Combating youth unemployment contrib- cies do not lead to more environmental ple dropped off the labour market. 14 utes to ensuring that young people are pollution). given a good start to help achieve their as- Only half of the young people around the pirations as active citizens in a democrat- world are actively participating in the la- ic society. Fighting youth unemployment P

bour market and within the next decade, should consequently be seen as an impor- olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P an extra one billion people will reach work- tant investment for economic sustainability ing age. Unfortunately, many of them face and health. Society can gain considerably bleak prospects and little chance of ob- from high youth labour force participation. taining employment. Thus, youth unem- For instance, according to the International ployment is a particularly urgent problem. Labour Organisation, if youth unemploy- Never before have so many young people ment were to be halved, the world economy been without work or been in temporary would gain at least US $2.2 billion a year. and unstable employment. In many coun- tries young people are more than three It is important to talk not only in terms of times as likely to be out of work as adults the quantity of jobs but also to address and the numbers are even worse when it their quality. Presently, many employed comes to the participation of young wom- young people do not have decent-quality en in the labour force. Young women face jobs and therefore remain poor despite significantly more difficulties, both social- working. For example, among the 540 mil- ly and economically than young men in lion employed young people, approximately

14. International Labour Organization, 2010. Global Employment Trends for Youth [online] Geneva. Available at www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/.../---trends/.../wcms_143349.pdf/ [Accessed 2 September 2010] 15. Ibid 46 47

The National Council of Swedish Service Civil International (SCI) Youth Organisations (LSU)

Handcrafting Opportunities Tackling Poverty Together

In Tackling Poverty Together LSU, along with people have achieved greater recognition Pilateno is a small Nahua community of After the project was over, the local peo- UNDESA and youth organisations from and involvement nationally in poverty re- 700 inhabitants in the municipality of ple of Pilateno continue to produce small each cooperation country, work to pro- duction initiatives. Just two examples are Xilitla in the Sierra Huasteca San Luis craft and generate income for their fami- mote the influence of young people on na- that of the Liberia country team which has Potosi in Mexico. Its inhabitants live on cof- lies. Several factors contributed to the suc- tional Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers worked closely with its Ministry on Youth to fee production, but more and more from cess of this project : the availability of raw

(PRSP). The project, which takes place in create and multiply a youth-friendly version remittances generated by people migrat- materials, the organisational experience of P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy , Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Kenya, of the national PRSP and the country team ing to other cities in Mexico or in the US. Pilateno colleagues, who run a store selling P Zambia, and Liberia, has initiated in Ghana which has developed a guide to In most cases men work intensively in the products at the lowest possible cost, but and created the capacity for networks of evaluate national youth policy, a publica- fields, harvesting fruits or vegetables, or as also the multicultural dialogue during the youth organisations to take action in order tion that will help young people to make in- construction workers. Women, meanwhile, project, which allowed to consider many to increase young people’s participation in put into national youth policy development. work mainly as maids. ways of seeing things and strengthens poverty reduction processes. Through the ideas. P development and implementation of action During the summer of 2008 a group olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P plans the Tackling Poverty Together country of SCI volunteers took part in a three teams have gained hands-on experience in week project using seeds in order to pro- research and analysis, strategic planning, duce crafts. Beforehand, SCI’s local part- and advocacy for greater inclusion in deci- ner, Cochitlehua Centro Mexicano de sion-making processes. As a result young Intercambios (CEMIAC), had prepared the experience by asking the local population whether they were interested. CEMIAC also identified members of another indig- enous community that would train the local population. Then, a team of international volunteers were invited to participate in theproject. 48 49

one in three, or 152 million young workers, young women. The widespread problems are living in extreme poverty - on less than that many poorer people face in obtaining US$1.25 per person per day. In total young normal loans, when they do not have suf- Jeugddienst Don Bosco/ Belgium & people constitute one fourth of the world’s ficient security, are also common for many Don Bosco Youth-net (DBYN) working poor. 16 young people who have not had the chance to build up capital that could be used as Due to its importance, youth employ- security for the loans. They therefore have You(th) for Human Rights ment is also a major commitment in the a harder time getting loans to assist them Millennium Development Goals ; with Goal in removing themselves from poverty at the 8 including a target to develop, “ in coop- beginning of their lives. Micro-credit can eration with the developing countries, […] contribute to changing this situation. From July until December 2009 Jeugddienst From July 2009, 25 organisations from all decent and productive work for youth ”. Don Bosco together with Don Bosco Youth- over Europe, working with and for young Moreover, the UN Secretary General Ban net has organised and developed a youth people, were involved in this youth democ- Ki-moon has also acknowledged the urgen- democracy project entitled You(th) for hu- racy project to give the opportunity to all

cy of this problem by taking the initiative man rights. The project, which has been young Europeans to let their voices be P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy to the Youth Employment Network that is a funded by the Youth in Action programme heard about specific human rights educa- P driver for the employment and social inclu- of the European Commission, focussed tion issues. You(th) for human rights was sion of young people.17 on human rights education and had as its set up as a three stage project with a pre- main aim to bring together young people paratory phase, a European youth con- However, youth unemployment and youth from all over Europe through non-formal gress which took place in Belgium and a poverty must be tackled on the ground, education. third follow up stage concluded with the P

with measures that allow for a smooth tran- release of a publication about the project olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P sition between the education process and and its outcomes. employment. Measures should also be tak- en in order to foster entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial spirit of young people as well as to prevent the normalisation of temporary and unstable contracts. One ef- fective measure of doing so is to provide micro-credit for young people, especially

16. Ibid 17. International Labour Organization, 2010. Fact Sheet on Decent Work and the Millennium Development Goals [online] Geneva. Available at www.ilocarib.org.tt/.../Youth%%20Employment/FactSheetmdg8.pdf [Accessed 17 September 2010] 50 51

3.5 PEACE AND 3.6 ENVIRONMENT AND CONFLICT PREVENTION CLIMATE CHANGE

Development and peace are inextricably In this context, an integrated strategy com- Climate change is not only a huge threat East Asia could face a loss of 9-13% of linked. Combined with poverty, armed con- bining the protection and relief of young to global development and the future of GDP compared to how it would have been flicts and violence impede development people in armed conflict situations is re- humankind ; it is also a clear example of without climate change. It is clear that gov- and impede the prospects and future of quired. Strategies that combine peace ed- an area where the needs of today’s youth ernments can not hope to meet develop-

young people. ucation, solidarity and respect for human and future generations are being compro- ment targets without also addressing cli- P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy rights based on formal and non-formal mised by older and previous generations’ mate change. P Armed conflicts have a significant effect education, with programmes to empower lifestyles. Young people have the right to a on youth development with direct and in- young people to fulfil their potential and sustainable future, as do people in develop- Despite this the ambitious and fair global direct consequences for young people who act as development have been identified ing countries, who, as highlighted by the climate change deal needed at the Climate are among the main victims of violence, as the most effective to allow peace and 2006 Stern Review, suffer the most from Change Conference in Copenhagen in not only by being caught in the crossfire development. Such strategies should also climate change.18 December 2009 in order to prevent dan- P

but also by being recruited into armed include support measures to involve youth gerous climate change was not adopted. olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P forces, internally displaced and turned into organisations in conflict prevention, peace- Indeed the impacts of climate change have Despite all the evidence and after two refugees. building and post-conflict processes. already proven to be disastrous for the weeks of exhaustive talks, world leaders world’s most vulnerable people with the failed to deliver a legally binding commit- Poverty often acts as the drive behind con- Working towards preventing armed con- potential to become much more severe in ment to cut greenhouse gas emissions. flicts and violence. The absence or inade- flicts and ensuring access to healthcare, the future. Accelerated dangerous climate Climate change was merely recognised by quacy of housing, health care and nutrition education, employment and participation change in the future would hit agricultural governments at a time when millions are and the lack of education, employment in decision-making in society is an impor- incomes severely, health problems would already suffering from its effects. and participation opportunities are factors tant part of both the promotion of peace arise as a consequence of heat stress, of conflicts and involvement of young peo- and youth development. flooding, malnutrition and water borne dis- As young people make up a larger share ple in such events. The adverse impact of eases, millions of people would be forced of the population in developing countries armed conflicts on health, education, em- to migrate and the stress on natural re- the importance of this issue for youth is ployment and participation of young peo- sources could spur conflict and violence. clear, it is also natural that youth take an ple in society is also evident, preventing An estimated 250-550 million additional active role in advocating for measures to their development. people could suffer from hunger mostly in reduce green-house gas emissions, both in African and Western Asia ; India and South Europe and globally.19 The focus of young

18. Stern, N., 2006 The Economics of Climate Change. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press 19. YFJ ,2008. European youth fighting against Climate Change [online] Brussels. Available at www.youthforum.org/images/stories/Documents/Employment_and_Social_Affairs/0438-08_Climate_FINAL.pdf> [Accessed 4 September 2010] 52 53

climate change activists will now turn to the Aside from international climate change International Federation of Cancún negotiations in 2010 in Mexico and negotiations, natural resources in general Parochial Youth Movements the Johannesburg negotiations in 2011 to should be managed in a more sustainable ensure that the fair, adequate and legally way. It is a crucial development issue as (FIMCAP) binding climate agreement that was ex- industrialised countries’ exploitation and pected in Copenhagen in 2009 is adopted consumption of resources of developing Thematic Study Sessions on Water, Nutrition, Mobility, Energy, internationally and that additional financial countries strongly hinder their develop- Non-formal education and Responsibility for the Creations of God resources to address climate change are al- ment. This is evident in forestry, fishery located to developing countries. Youth or- and minerals extraction. The involvement ganisations and the dynamism and creativ- of local communities and youth is crucial Over the past three years FIMCAP has been The topics Water, Nutrition, Mobility, ity that young people bring to the climate for a sustainable conservation of biodiver- focusing on the MDGs, particularly goal Energy, Non-Formal Education and change debate are vital in order to make sity. There also needs to be a rights-based two to achieve universal primary educa- Responsibility for the Creations of God vis- this a reality. They also play a vital role in approach to natural resources and the envi- tion, goal three to promote gender equality à-vis Climate change were tackled in differ- combating climate change through aware- ronment, particularly clean drinking water.

and empower women and goal six to com- ent workshops, in which the participants ness-raising, particularly on sustainable P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy bat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases. of the General Assembly connected these consumption. Young people, like national P Twenty two FIMCAP Member Organisations topics to the dimensions of national, con- governments and international institutions, from four different continents met in tinental and worldwide organisational work also have environmental responsibilities between 14 and 22 August 2010 as well as local day-to-day life. FIMCAP or- and many youth organisations have also for a General Assembly with a special focus ganisations shall continue to focus on the committed to reducing their emissions on Climate Change. Through the General issues of climate change during the next and to developing environmentally friendly P

Assembly’s mission statement various three years (2010 – 2013) and shall de- policies. olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P youth organisations committed themselves velop projects accordingly. The action plan to promote the issue of sustainable devel- developed at the General Assembly com- opment. FIMCAP’s Member Organisations prises various ideas and plans for all levels want to educate young people so that they from worldwide to local. can influence society and take action in their local communities in accordance to the realities in which they live. This comes after facilitating a process where young people become aware of the impact and the importance of sustainable develop- ment and assume their role as effective agents in the necessary course of action. 54 55

National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) 3.7 MIGRATION Zambia- Ireland Exchange

Migration is a global phenomenon en- for instance only 1% of Africans move to NYCI runs an exchange programme for The exchange is run in association 80 :20 trenched in the unequal distribution of Europe. As statistics clearly indicate, there youth workers from Zambia and Ireland. Educating and Acting for a Better World wealth and the existing discrepancies in is a direct correlation between emigration Since starting in 2005, 52 youth work- who engage in development education in the levels of development among differ- rates and levels of human development. ers have participated. The aim of the ex- Zambia. Pre-departure and follow-up meet-

ent areas of the world. If migration flows change is to share good youth work prac- ings are organised for participants and P art III- Youth (Development) Youth (Development) III- art

olicy take also place from the South to the North Around 7% of international migrants are tice ; highlight key development and justice organisations are encouraged to directly P of the world, it is important to underline refugees, numbering 14 million in total. A issues for young people in both countries contact one another. The main communi- that internal migrants (740 million) out- minority of 500,000 move to a developed and promote linking between youth work cation tools used by the organisations and number international migrants (200 mil- country with the aim of seeking asylum. structures in Ireland and Zambia. The ex- the individual participants are email and lion) and that the majority of migrants do The figures relating to internally displaced change happens each November, coincid- . not move necessarily from a developing to people are much higher, estimated at 26 ing with the annual One World Week (OWW) P a developed country. Indeed, the majority million in 2009. International human rights in Ireland. Both the exchange and OWW are olicy artIII- (Development)Youth

P of international migrants move from one law requires governments to guarantee informed by the MDGs, particularly Goal 8 developing country to another or between fundamental rights to refugees including which calls for a global partnership for de- developed countries, while a minority (70 freedom from discrimination and right to velopment, and by a recognition that young million) move from a developing country to not to be returned (non-refoulement) to a people are essential actors for change lo- a developed one.20 country where they might be persecuted. cally and globally. In both countries, young Contrary to the claims often made by some people have the opportunity to interact Nevertheless, the link between migration policy makers, the number of asylum seek- with the visiting youth workers and high- and inequality is an important one as more ers in developed countries overall remains light similarities and differences between than three quarter of international mi- quite stable; in the EU it has increased only their experiences. grants move to a country where the human by 3% from 2008 to 2009.21 development index is higher than the coun- try of origin. If migration is caused by vio- lations of rights, conflicts, poverty and cli- mate change, the poorest experience more difficulties to move and indeed move less ;

20. United Nations Development Programme, 2010. Human Development Report 2010 [online] New York. Available at http ://hdr.undp.org/en/mediacentre/ [Accessed 2 October 2010] 21. United Nations Development Programme, 2009. Human Development Report 2009 [online] New York. Available at http ://hdr.undp.org/en/media/hdr_2009_EN_Summary.pdf [Accessed 2 October 2010] 56 57

Young people constitute a considerable shortage of skills on the European market. share of international migrants ; youth un- On the other hand, the youth perspective der the age of 29 represents indeed half of within migration and development poli- CONCLUSIONS : the global migrant flows. If young people cies should be strengthened.24 Barriers to can benefit from specific gains from migrat- the freedom of movement of young peo- FROM WORDS ing, they also experience many challenges. ple should be removed in order to provide Educational gains are clearly associated to them with further opportunities in the field young migrants moving from developing to of education and employment. 25 TO ACTION ! developed countries, especially in terms of enrolment ratios.22 However, young mi- Cooperation between countries of ori- grants in Europe are at the same time more gin and receiving countries is key to en- This short booklet attempts to bridge youth // Youth and the concept of develop- likely to leave school earlier than their na- sure that youth migration does not result policy-making with the experiences of mil- ment : Development Needs Youth ! This tive peers, to perform worse and to be dis- in brain drain in the countries of origin. lions of young people serving their local, seems acknowledged by most government criminated against on the ground of their Channels for regular migration should be national and global communities through and institutions, at least in their official

ethnic origin or religion. If some channels provided in order to tackle irregular mi- their participation in youth organisations. discourse, but what kind of development Conclusions

olicy for ensuring regular migration of students gration and the exposure of irregular mi- However, this is only a first step to strength- does youth need ? The debate is very open P from third countries to Europe exist, low grants to violation of fundamental rights, en the reflection and the action around and controversial on that point. Some re-

skilled young migrants and youth migrat- including for instance the risk, particularly the issue of youth and sustainable devel- searchers propose that the current fashion action to words : From ing for other purposes than education ex- higher for minors, women and girls to be opment. In conclusion, there are at least of targeting young people in development perience extremely severe barriers to move. trafficked. Agreements between receiving three challenges which should be tackled policies could be just a vehicle for quiet- countries and countries of origin to coun- and for which decision-makers, research ing ideological challenges and building The positive aspects linked to migration teract irregular migration should not be community and youth organisations each consensus over policies which see young artIII- (Development)Youth !

P also have to be acknowledged. As research based on repression but rather be inspired have different roles to play : people as policy-consumers and not policy- and international institutions have under- by prevention and information sharing. makers. In this regard it will be a necessary lined, migration is linked with positive im- step to open this conceptual discussion to pact both on countries of origin and on As the UNDP suggests in its Annual Report the various actors involved : the institu- receiving countries. Remittances have for on Human Development 2009, overcoming tions, the research community and youth instance a positive effect on countries of barriers to migration is necessary as mi- organisations. origin and movement of people could also gration “ while not a substitute for broader succeed in bringing new ideas back to the development efforts, can be a vital strat- countries of origin.23 Migration has also a egy for households and families seeking to positive impact on the demographic chal- diversify and improve their livelihoods ”. 26 lenges faced by Europe today and to the

22. United Nations Development Programme, 2010. Human Development Report 2010 [online] New York. Available at http ://hdr.undp.org/en/mediacentre/ [Accessed 2 October 2010] 23. United Nations Development Programme, 2010. Human Development Report 2010 [online] New York. Available at http ://hdr.undp.org/en/mediacentre/ [Accessed 2 October 2010] 24. Social Watch Network, 2009. Migrants in Europe as Development Actors [online] Montevideo. Available at http ://oneworldsee.org/node/19589 [Accessed 8 September 2010] 25. YFJ (2008), Policy Paper Youth & Migration [online] Brussels. Available at www.youthforum.org/en/system/files/yfj_public/strategic_priorities/en/1069-07_Migration_Final_pdf. [Accessed 7 September 2010] 26. United Nations Development Programme, 2009. Human Development Report 2009 [online] New York. Available at http ://hdr.undp.org/en/media/hdr_2009_EN_Summary.pdf [Accessed 2 October 2010] 58 59

List of Acronyms

ACP – African Caribbean and the Pacific AEGEE – Association des Etats Généraux des Etudiants de l’Europe/ European Students’ Forum CNJ – Portuguese National Youth Council COMEM – Council of Members DAC – Development Assistance Committee DBYN – Don Bosco Youth Network EYCE – Ecumenical Youth Council in Europe // Monitoring and Evaluation : // Democratic Participation is key : FAO – Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations The value of the commitment of young since more than half of the world popula- FIMCAP – International Federation of Catholic Parochial Youth Movements people involved in youth organisations is tion is less than thirty years old, global and GCAP – Global Call for Action Against Poverty hardly measurable with facts and figures, regional institutions should take this fact GCCC – Global Cooperation Coordination Committee because it is not merely based on project into consideration. Youth organisations GDP – Gross Domestic Product !

outcomes but is the result of life-long pro- provide the right channel to take an active GNI – Gross National Income cesses which can be fully assessed only role in the community and to make young HIV/AIDS – Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome L ist of Acronyms ist in the long term. Nevertheless, non-gov- people real agents of change. This is the ICESCR – International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights ernmental youth organisations and devel- greatest contribution of youth NGOs to de- ICMYO – International Coordination Meeting of Youth Organisations

: From words to action opment institutions should join forces to velopment and it deserves appropriate and IFMSA – International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations

create concrete tools to monitor and eval- specific recognition. IFM-SEI – International Falcon Movement – Socialist Education International uate the impact of youth participation in ILO – International Labour Organisation

Conclusions development policies and the relevance of INGYO – International Non Governmental Youth Organisation the youth-led development projects. The IOM – International Organization for Migration Commonwealth Plan of Action for Youth IPCC – Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change Empowerment for the period 2006-2015 LSU – Swedish National Youth Council is a good example in this direction, be- MDG – Millennium Development Goal cause it foresees the setting up of a Youth NYCI – National Youth Council of Ireland Development Index to monitor the situation OECD – Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development of young people. These indicators should PRSPs – Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers be complementary both to the Human SCI – Service Civil International Development Index and the MDG targets. SAJV/CSAJ – Swiss National Youth Council STI – Sexual Transmitted Infection YFJ – European Youth Forum UNFPA – United Nations Population Fund UNDP – United Nations Development Programme UN ICESR – United Nations International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights WAGGGS – World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts WOSM – World Organisation of the Scout Movement WPAY – World Programme of Action for Youth 60 61

References

European Youth Forum, 2007. Policy Paper on Achieving Equality Between Women & Men Stern, N., 2006. The Economics of Climate Change. Cambridge, Cambridge University [online] Brussels. Available at

[Accessed 4 September 2010] as International Year of Youth [online] New York. Available at http ://www.un.org/en/ References ga/64/resolutions.shtml [Accessed 7 August 2010]

References Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN, 2010. The State of Food Insecurity in the World [online] Rome. Available at http ://www.fao.org/docrep/013/i1683e/i1683e.pdf Weston, B.H. and Bach, T., Recalibrating the Law of Humans with the Laws of Nature : [Accessed 12 November 2010] Climate Change, Human Rights and Intergenerational Justice [online] Vermont, Iowa [Published 2009] Available at http ://international.uiowa.edu/centers/human-rights/ International Labour Organization, 2010. Global Employment Trends for Youth [on- documents/CLI_Policy_Paper.pdf [Accessed 29 September 2009] line] Geneva. Available at www.ilo.org/empelm/what/pubs/lang--en/docName--WC- MS_143349/index.htm [Accessed 13 October 2010] Youth Forum of the European Communities (1982) Youth Forum's views and proposals regarding the European Community's Contribution to development, Brussels. Adopted at the International Labour Organization, 2010. Fact Sheet on Decent Work and the Millennium Executive Committee 5-6 November 1982 Development Goals [online] Geneva. Available at

International Monetary Fund, 2010. Fact sheet on Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers [online] Washington. Available at www.imf.org/external/np/exr/contacts/contacts.aspx [Accessed 29 September 2010]

Social Watch Network, 2009. Migrants in Europe as Development Actors [online] Montevideo. Available at http ://oneworldsee.org/node/19589 [Accessed 8 September 2010]