Youth Policy Dialogue with Commissioner Hadja Lahbib - Preparedness starts with youth

The young participants will have the opportunity to share their views, express their ideas, and engage in active discussions with Commissioner Lahbib on citizens’ risk awareness, disaster and health preparedness from a youth perspective. These exchanges will contribute to shaping the EU’s enlargement policy and programming initiatives, ensuring that young people’s voices contribute to the process. Under the theme Preparedness starts with youth, the dialogue will touch upon young people’s priorities, including:

• specific challenges young people experience when it comes to being aware of risks,
• how young people can support prevention and preparedness work,
• listen to their views on policy initiatives in the field of emergency preparedness and societal resilience,

In the coming years, regular youth dialogues with innovative formats and diverse participation will be organised to sustain the momentum and ensure continuous youth engagement in EU policymaking.

Purpose of the Dialogue

The EU’s preparedness strategy is a cornerstone of the 2024-2029 Commission’s strategic vision, aiming at a more robust approach to European crisis management and civil preparedness. Engaging young people in this process is crucial to ensure that young people play an important role in all phases of the disaster risk management cycle: prevention, preparedness, response and recovery. Youth bring creative and resourceful ideas to ensure prevention and preparedness are a priority for the society as a whole. 

This Youth Policy Dialogue underscores the EU’s commitment to empowering young voices and ensuring their meaningful participation in shaping the future of Europe. Together, we can build a more cohesive, resilient, and inclusive Europe, grounded in the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

After the Dialogue

After the Youth Policy Dialogue, a follow-up report will be published, summarising the discussions and capturing the participants’ ideas. The purpose of this report is to make sure the issues raised during the debate are noted and considered in related policy actions. 

The report will be made available on the European Youth Portal and other relevant platforms. Participants will be encouraged to provide feedback, which will inform future Youth Policy Dialogues. As part of the Action Plan, opportunities for future engagement with young participants and their networks to facilitate ongoing collaboration, communication, and resource-sharing will be explored.