New policy paper on equality and non-discrimination for the Youth Forum

Young people in Europe today face many difficulties because of discrimination and different treatment. Significant challenges include lower “youth wages”, unequal job terms, less stable income, and lack of access to social security. At even greater risk are the many young people who do not conform to the norms and expectations of society and thus face significant additional barriers.

The Youth Forum, during its Council of Members which took place this weekend in Brussels, adopted a new policy paper on equality and non-discrimination which, in a series of recommendations, calls for an end to discrimination against young people based on age and a variety of other factors.

Discrimination is an increasing reality for young people today, despite legislation and obligations to prevent it at various levels nationally and internationally. It is a particular problem in education, work, and in the 
access to and supply of goods and services, including housing, social services and 
healthcare, as well as finance via bank services. These discriminations are a burden that disproportionately affects 
young people. Discrimination hinders young people’s transition to adulthood and 
autonomy. It has also been proven that discrimination at an early age can affect young people’s health, well-being, 
self-esteem and sense of belonging – and thus likely to impact their future. 
In its most extreme forms, discrimination and prejudice can fuel and lead to hate speech 
and hate crimes.

In its new policy paper the Youth Forum calls, for antidiscrimination legislation and awareness-raising about the rights and remedies for those experiencing discrimination. This is to ensure that those suffering discrimination or those witnessing it are empowered to stand up against it and seek redress. It also highlights the role that formal, as well as non formal-education providers, including youth organisations, have to play in breaking down stereotypes and raising awareness. It calls for substantial research to be done into multiple discrimination as it affects young people. Multiple discrimination is where young people are discriminated against because of their age and other factor(s). The Youth Forum demands evidence-based and rights-based policies to prevent such discrimination.