EU Statement - HRC60 - Biennial panel discussion on youth and human rights
UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL
60th session
Biennial panel discussion on youth and human rights
16 September 2025
EU statement
Chair,
The EU thanks all panelists for their input and welcomes the realization of this Panel Discussion in the year that marks the 10th anniversary of the Youth, Peace and Security agenda.
The meaningful participation and inclusion of young persons is key in all endeavors aimed at promoting peaceful societies and human rights. Their role and potential are clearly reflected in the UN Youth Strategy, the Call to Action for Human Rights, Our Common Agenda and, most recently, in the Pact for the Future.
Young persons, through their unique perspectives and innovative approaches, are at the forefront of addressing today’s most pressing global challenges. It is the responsibility of States to safeguard and expand their civic space, which is an integral element of healthy and resilient democracies.
Today’s discussion provides a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding of how to address the persistent challenges hindering inclusive representation and meaningful youth participation in decision-making processes, namely, poor education, lack of opportunities, harassment or reprisals.
The EU has developed practical efforts to enhance youth participation. In this respect, we would like to highlight the EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027; the creation of a youth sounding board and the appointment of Youth Advisors for EU international partnerships; as well as the creation of youth consultation structures at country level facilitated by EU Delegations around the world. Recently, the Commission President has launched a Youth Advisory Board, putting young persons at the heart of EU policymaking. Finally, we highlight the EU Youth, Peace and Security conference, which will take place in November, in Brussels.
Thank you.