Youth councils
What is a Youth council?
Youth council is a recognized and institutionalized structure that gives young people a voice in governance and decision-making. It provides a formal platform for youth to share opinions, influence policies, and actively participate in democratic life, often with an advisory and advocacy role or educational dimension.
Key characteristics
Structured mechanism for youth engagement in governance and decision-making Composed of young representatives, typically aged 12–30, from youth organisations, student councils, or as individuals Advisory, advocacy or educational role, depending on mandate Can be embedded in government structures or operate independently (e.g. through NGOs or youth-led initiatives) Members are elected or appointed, often forming working groups on specific issues Regular meetings for discussion, project development, and policy recommendations Adults may support as policymakers, youth workers, or educators Level of influence and recognition depends on institutional support and integration into formal structuresDifferent types of Youth councils
Local youth council
Independent or NGO-led council
Sectoral youth council / Youth jury
Institution-based council
Hybrid models
Do NOT establish this model in case
you lack institutional support or commitment in the organisation you operate in a highly bureaucratic or rigid environments you can count on limited resources or capacity to ensure trained staff, spaces for meetings and administrative support; there is insufficient adult/expert support that can be provided you can not ensure sufficient preparation or guidance for the youth you need to operate in an urgent decision-making context