The protection of youth rights and support of young political prisoners of Belarus
The European Youth Forum recognises the urgent need to protect youth rights and support young political prisoners in Belarus. This resolution addresses the increasing number of political prisoners that experience inhumane conditions during imprisonment, and calls for their immediate and unconditional release. It also emphasises the importance of international solidarity and cooperation in promoting human rights and democracy.
The European Youth Forum stands in solidarity with the Belarusian National Youth Council, RADA, and pledges to support their efforts. The Council of Members reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with RADA and its member organisations, to amplify their voices, advocate for their causes, and ensure that their work receives the international recognition it deserves.
Related publications
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.