Democracy in Action - Youth Work Matters

In recent years, democratic backsliding has reached alarming levels in Europe and globally. These challenges hit younger generations the hardest, leading to a lack of trust between young people and democratic institutions and processes. But democracy is not a lost cause, it is time for a call to action!!

The youth sector, particularly youth organisations and youth work play an important role in revitalising democracy. Youth work creates safe spaces for dialogue, fosters critical thinking, and empowers young people to take an active role in shaping their societies. Now more than ever, we must recognize and support the important role of youth work in securing the future of democracy. The international conference, organised by IJAB – International Youth Service of the Federal Republic of Germany in cooperation with the Council of Europe Youth Department, addressed these topics. The conference 'Democracy in Action – Youth Work Matters' took place from December 3 to 5, 2025, in Strasbourg.