Young people and their important role in society

Valerie Duffy,
80:20 Education Officer, explains ...

“The active participation of young people in decisions and actions at a local and regional level is essential if we are to build more democratic,
inclusive and prosperous societies. Participation in the democratic life of any community is about more than voting or standing for election,
although these are important elements. Participation and active citizenship is about having the right, the means, the space and the
opportunity and where necessary the support to participate in and
influence decisions and engage in actions and activities so as to
contribute to building a better society.”

_{Revised European Charter on the Participation of Young People in Local and Regional Life Council of Europe, 2003}

I am no longer amazed by the ability, the energy and the dedication young people have for an issue that they feel passionate about. Often all that is required is a ‘leg up’, an initial commitment to support young people’s efforts, some encouragement and the results speak for themselves!

80:20, since its foundation in 1996, has worked closely with young people, youth workers, parents, schools and the community in raising awareness, developing skills, understanding and debate about some of the most fundamental happenings in our everyday world - from the local to the global. Today we live in a world that may have become smaller thanks to technology and travel but it is one that is far more diverse and provides more broad ranging opportunities and choices than ever before. Many young people are involved in youth organisations, clubs and groups. With competing interests, some of the older and more established organisations and belief systems are being challenged. It is clear that there is growing concern about the lack of engagement by young people in the community and political process. Young people especially are increasingly adapting to new opportunities, new ways of working and thinking. Quite often this is misinterpreted as young people not caring, being apathetic, insular, individualistic and even ignorant!

Not so! Come along to some of our workshops on gender, democracy, human rights, genocide etc. and you will see that this is certainly not the case. From our experience, young people are as concerned and interested in the world about them as are other generations. Our work provides the opportunity for young people to engage with these issues and to discern for themselves the outcomes and the follow-through. It is about ‘adding value’ to their lives whether it be a greater understanding of an issue or the development of new skills in terms of communication and action. The opportunity is provided for young people to get involved and the space given to them to discuss and challenge and to participate further if that is what they are interested in doing. The results can be amazing.