The Mosaic Minds project team, a Czech youth think tank, developed the “Mládež v akci” (Youth in Action) strategy to tackle the limited engagement of Czech youth in regional policymaking and long-term strategic planning. Created within the EU-backed “Think Tank – Chance for Youth” project, Mosaic Minds aims to empower youth to actively shape policies that will impact their futures, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and forward-thinking governance.
In their analysis, the project team identified key obstacles preventing greater youth participation: structural barriers within policy-making institutions, lack of information and access to engagement channels, and potential biases from adult stakeholders in decision-making positions. These hurdles, the team argues, undermine policy efficacy, as decisions may not align with the needs and aspirations of younger generations. Furthermore, they highlight the evidence linking youth civic engagement with innovation, social cohesion, and democratic resilience—outcomes crucial for sustainable societal development.
With these challenges in mind, “Mládež v akci” proposes actionable strategies to enhance youth engagement in Czech regional politics. These strategies include:
- Educational Initiatives: Collaborating with educational authorities to enrich civic education curricula, focusing on practical knowledge about local and regional policymaking. Campaigns that highlight successful youth-led initiatives and emphasize youth rights in democracy aim to foster awareness and enthusiasm for active citizenship.
- Inclusive Access: Broadening participation beyond traditional youth councils to include marginalized groups, such as rural youth, the Roma community, and young people with disabilities, through partnerships with NGOs. This aims to tailor strategies to address diverse needs and reach youth across all demographics.
- Structural Supports for Meaningful Participation: Establishing mechanisms for varied levels of engagement, from one-time consultations to permanent roles in decision-making bodies, and providing clear feedback channels to show how youth contributions influence policy. To mitigate socio-economic barriers to participation, they recommend mentorship and financial support programs.
- Training for Policymakers: Instituting mandatory training for policymakers on effective youth engagement, addressing any potential biases, and enhancing skills for facilitating inclusive discussions. This training intends to equip decision-makers with the tools to appreciate and incorporate youth perspectives effectively.
Ultimately, Mosaic Minds envisions a participatory model where Czech youth become not merely passive recipients but active architects of their futures. The project advocates for a policy landscape where young voices are genuinely valued, building a stronger foundation for trust, creativity, and progress in Czech society. By implementing these changes, the team hopes to see Czech regions develop into more inclusive, innovative, and resilient communities, ready to navigate complex future challenges.
Link to the publication: https://www.petrklichelp.cz/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/CZECHIA-REGIONAL-STRATEGY-TEMPLATE-.pdf
