Inclusive Learning Mobility: Addressing Visa Barriers for Youth
In the European context, young people face visa-related challenges, which vary depending on their specific categorisations. EU citizens within the Schengen Area generally enjoy seamless mobility, while those from non-Schengen countries face barriers both within the EU and abroad. Bureaucratic complexities and prolonged processing times often hinder their participation in exchange opportunities across the region.
This motion aims to raise attention to streamlining visa procedures for young people and promoting accessible and inclusive learning mobility programs across Europe. It seeks to mitigate bureaucratic barriers and ensure equitable opportunities for all, fostering cross-cultural understanding and empowering youth.
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The situation of youth organisations across Europe
Youth Organisations across Europe are facing an increasingly challenging situation. Political and economic circumstances are leading to shrinking civic spaces and therefore a shrinking chance of youth organisations to fulfil their purpose and represent the voice of young people. Read the motion to find out which of the European Youth Forum's members have been impacted and how, as well as what we commit to internally as part of our Strategic Plan and what we call for externally.
Protecting civil society and civic spaces in Georgia
In March 2023, the Government of Georgia initiated work on a legislative proposal on “foreign agents” that would have forced civil society organisations to be registered as being under foreign influence should they be receiving funding from sources outside of the country. As Georgia initiated negotiations for EU membership merely 6 months ago, this underscores how fragile Democracy and the Rule of Law are in our societies and how civic spaces must be protected tirelessly every day, everywhere.
Empowering Youth Voices: Defending Democracy and European Values
We cannot deny the European Union and its values are facing threats from both inside and outside. The European Youth Forum is committed to actively speaking out against these threats and protecting the values of intercultural understanding, democracy, respect, diversity, human rights, active citizenship, and solidarity.