At YMCA Europe, we are committed to advocating for the rights, needs, and aspirations of young people across the continent. Our advocacy work operates on multiple levels, ensuring that our voice, and the voices of young people within our movement, are heard in key decision-making spaces
Representation
Our staff team and key leaders actively represent our members by engaging with elected officials, private sector representatives, and international bodies. Through these interactions, we build strong partnerships, share the impact of our work, and influence policies and outcomes that support our vision for a more inclusive, equitable Europe. Our presence in these spaces amplifies the collective voice of national YMCA movements across Europe.
Empowering Youth Voices
Central to our advocacy work is the empowerment of young people. We nurture a network of young representatives from across Europe, providing them with the training, tools, and platforms needed to express their needs and experiences. Whether in online or in-person spaces, these young leaders collaborate, share ideas, and engage directly with policymakers, ensuring that their voices contribute to shaping the future. Find out more about the YMCA Europe’s Youth Representative Network (EYRN).
Campaigns and Projects
Throughout the year, we lead various campaigns to raise awareness about pressing issues affecting young people. These campaigns bring focus to topics that matter most to European youth, from social justice to environmental sustainability. Our advocacy projects are designed not only to inform but also to inspire action and drive change at both local and international levels.