A renewed framework for European cooperation in the youth field

The EU ministers responsible for youth policy have adopted a new framework for EU cooperation on youth policy for the period 2010-2018. The overall goals are to create more and equal opportunities for all young people in the education system and labour market, and to promote active citizenship and social inclusion.

It was in November 2009 that the ministers adopted the the new framework for cooperation on youth issues. With the framework the foundation has been laid for political cooperation in the areas that affect young people the most: Education and training,Employment and entrepreneurship, Health and well-being, Participation, Voluntary activities, Social inclusion
Youth and the world, Creativity and culture.

The new framework specifies overall goals, priorities, working methods and follow-up systems. The overall goals of this cooperation will be the creation of more and equal opportunities for all young people in the education system and labour market, promotion of active citizenship and social inclusion.

The decision on a new framework was based on the European Commission's proposal from April 2009 on a new EU strategy for youth. An important starting point was also the major evaluation of EU youth policy undertaken in all Member States in 2008.

Before the decision was taken, extensive consultations took place with young people and youth organisations. A structured dialogue will also continue to be an important part of the future cooperation. On 12-14 September a major conference was arranged in Stockholm with young people from the entire EU, EFTA and candidate countries, officials, researchers, and others working with youth issues. This was the last round of consultations before the new framework for cooperation was adopted in November.