Inclusive and participatory Europe: Empowering young people

ongoing

Founded in 2002, YES Forum is a European network of organisations working with and for young people with fewer opportunities. By promoting their social inclusion and developing their professional skills, we act to improve the life chances of vulnerable young people, hence combating poverty and inequalities. Over the last decades, the network established itself in a unique position; encouraging dialogue between its members, who work directly on the field, and policy makers. We act as a bridge that gives young people a voice in decision making processes that influence their lives. YES Forum desires a society where every young person, regardless of the background, can realize their full potential and has the opportunity to make a positive contribution to society. To respond to the challenges faced by young people, YES Forum creates room for peer learning, helps to develop labour market competences and transversal skills as recommended by the European Skills Agenda for sustainable competitiveness, social fairness and resilience. By providing formal and non-formal learning, YES Forum promotes social inclusion and active participation of young people with vulnerable background in society, thus contributing to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan. Within the operating grant, YES Forum will implement activities answering to the following objectives: - Decreasing the NEETs rate by improving vocational education and training - Enhancing the promotion and recognition of education professionals - Providing access to opportunities for rural and remote areas - Fostering gender equality and gender-sensitivity in the workplace - Improving intergenerational dialogue at work - Promoting hands-on approaches to make VET, education and life-long learning more inclusive - Making EU language more accessible for young people and educational professionals