Be Inclusive. Be Diverse. Be Heard : Empowering BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and Disabled Youth in European Democracy.

forthcoming

This project aims to build and strengthen an EU-wide network of youth-led organisations representing BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled youth. It has four core objectives: (1) increase civic engagement among marginalised youth; (2) strengthen the capacity, collaboration, and visibility of youth organisations; (3) amplify youth voices in EU policymaking; and (4) promote inclusion and EU values through accessible art. Key activities include: outreach and consultations reaching over 210 young people; eight online training sessions; one in-person retreat; a peer-to-peer capacity building lab; a youth-led research project on AI and marginalised youth; two EU-wide advocacy campaigns; one visibility campaign; 10 policy dialogues with MEPs; seven engagements with EU Commissioners or teams; two “Work with your MEP” programmes; and a creative campaign using accessible art. Over 400 individuals—primarily BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled youth, as well as youth workers, staff, and volunteers—will benefit directly through engagement, training, and leadership opportunities. Expected results include improved youth engagement in democratic life, enhanced organisational skills and partnerships within the network, increased recognition of marginalised voices at EU level, and stronger advocacy impact. The project will produce at least 8 training modules, 1 annual policy paper, 1 joint youth-led research report, 1 tactile photo exhibition, 27 portraits, 3 campaigns (visibility, advocacy, and art), and multiple consultation inputs into EU processes such as the EU Youth Strategy and Youth Check.