“Acting together is the DNA of the European Union and of the European construction. This idea of working together for the prosperity of the people has been working for a long time. However, the European Union is like a bicycle: if people do not keep pedaling, it falls down.”

Sofia Moreira de SousaHead of the European Commission Representation in Portugal

“The activity allowed us to reflect on the dimensions and structure of our local youth
council, identifying areas for improvement. Due to our busy schedules, we don’t usually have the time to focus on these aspects at home, therefore the training course
represented a precious moment of reflection for us.”

Jérémy LasryCoordinator of Paris Youth Council, France

“If we want to tackle these challenges and build resilient, high-quality democracies, the active involvement of young people is essential.”

Bruno AntónioDYPALL Network

“Social media is a double-edged sword for democracy: it brings us closer together, provides greater access to information, and has helped young people develop critical thinking. However, it can become counterproductive when it promotes racism, xenophobia, and divisive narratives. Democracy thrives when young people are given spaces to participate and are placed at the center of decision-making.”

André CardosoPresident of the Portuguese National Youth Council (CNJ)

“Political life exists beyond elections, challenging narrow citizenship concepts; democratic innovations offer real possibilities for youth participation through combined face-to-face and digital methods; and intersectionality helps bring marginalized voices into democracy, reminding society that power centers can and should be contested”

Roberto FalangaAssistant Research Professor at the Institute of Social Sciences, University of Lisbon

“Political participation extends far beyond voting, encompassing involvement in civic associations, engagement with political parties, and active participation in community initiatives aimed at advancing collective goals.”

Rita Martins de SousaVice-president of Próxima Geração

“This generation is the first to doubt whether their future will be better than their parents’,” a perception that deeply erodes trust in traditional political institutions.”

Lana PasicYouth Research and Policy Manager at the EU-Council of Europe Youth Partnership

“Young people are creators who want to build and cooperate, not destroy.(...) Yet that success depends not only on funding but also on political will, trust, and enabling environments that allow young people to genuinely co-create”

Stefan SindelarCEO of European Capital of Democracy