Read innovative policy recommendations by Arctic, Indigenous and European youth at the first Arctic Youth Dialogue.
Over the past few days, Brussels hosted the Arctic Youth Dialogue, where 32 Arctic, Indigenous and European youth gathered to discuss and shape the future of the Arctic.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Youth?!”, emphasized the importance of involving young people in policy-making processes in both Arctic and European contexts, with a strong focus on youth empowerment.
The event kicked off with team-building activities designed to establish connections and foster collaboration among participants.
Workshops were held on policymaking, networking and consensus building.
They quickly transitioned to addressing various pressing Arctic issues, with each young person contributing their own insights, lived experience and expertise.
The policy recommendations were sharpened with input from policymakers from the Arctic and the EU.
Participants delved into four themes:
1. Youth-inclusive planning and decision-making for the Arctic
2. Economic incentives for nature protections and conservation
3. Climate adaptation in the Arctic
4. The management of Arctic oceans
These discussions culminated in a series of insightful policy recommendations, which were presented at the EU-Arctic Youth Dialogues on May 15. These recommendations are set to influence policy-making at the European Parliament, reflecting the unique perspectives and innovative ideas of the youth involved.
The Youth Together for Arctic Futures project is led by the WWF Global Arctic Programme, in cooperation with organisations that bring decades of experience in youth empowerment, policy shaping, and research and conservation of Arctic ecosystems and livelihoods:
Arctic Youth Network, European Youth Parliament, Saami Council, Arctic Mayors’ Forum, Tromsø commune, University of Tromsø, and the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists.
The project is supported by the Norwegian Arctic Council chairship, WWF Greenland, and Arctic Frontiers as associates.
Youth Together for Arctic Futures is funded by the European Union.
This publication was funded by the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the the European Youth Parliament and partners and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
