Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event reviews progress to foster youth engagement in building a more sustainable future

The Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event taking place today and tomorrow in Brussels highlights the transformational impact of the EU's commitment to invest in and partner with young people around the world as part of the Global Gateway strategy. After a day dedicated to youth networks, the high-level event opens tomorrow with a video message by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, followed by a keynote speech by Jutta Urpilainen, Commissioner for International Partnerships.

Commissioner Urpilainen said: "The launch of the first Youth Action Plan in External Action two years ago was a landmark moment. Our goals were ambitious: to engage young people by giving them a voice in policy and decision making; to empower them with the resources they need to lead sustainable change; and to connect them, amplifying their collective influence. We are starting to see the impact - and yet, this is just the beginning. The Youth Action Plan and Global Gateway will create more opportunities for youth worldwide and ensure that young people continue to shape a more sustainable, inclusive future."

The event brings together policymakers, members of the EU's Youth Sounding Boards from around the globe, and other young leaders to celebrate achievements to-date under the first-ever Youth Action Plan in EU external action (2022-2027), including flagship initiatives such as: the Women and Youth in Democratic Engagement, which supports the engagement of young people in decision-making, political processes and civic movements at country level; the Youth Empowerment Fund, which facilitates access to and provides resources for young people to contribute to the sustainable development of their local communities and societies; and the Africa-Europe Youth Academy, which aims to enhance the capacities and opportunities of young people to act as multipliers of sustainable development and bridge-builders between Africa and Europe.

You can find more information on the agenda and follow the event online on this webpage.