In contemporary society, young individuals are not solely beneficiaries of human rights; they have emerged as crucial agents of change, significantly influencing the promotion and defense of these rights, particularly within the European context.

Active participation in various decision-making platforms, ranging from school councils to local government bodies, empowers youth to ensure their voices resonate within their communities. This engagement is essential for safeguarding their rights and fostering an inclusive environment.

By leveraging social media, young people can effectively organize dynamic campaigns and engage in public demonstrations that highlight pressing human rights issues. Their fervent efforts not only raise awareness but also serve as catalysts for policy influence and broader societal change.

Furthermore, young individuals possess a distinctive capacity to connect through workshops and discussions. By disseminating knowledge regarding rights and responsibilities, they nurture a culture of awareness and empowerment among their peers, thereby fostering a collective sense of responsibility.

Initiatives such as the BUILD project position youth in Cyprus and across Europe at the forefront of advocacy for equality, inclusion, and the rule of law—principles that are enshrined in the European Union Charter of Fundamental Rights. By spearheading these efforts, young people promote essential ideals and play an active role in shaping the future of democratic societies.

By embracing these diverse roles, youth not only protect their rights but also contribute significantly to the establishment of resilient, democratic, and inclusive societies.

References:

1. About the Human Rights Education Youth programme – human rights education youth programme – www.coe.int (no date) Council of Europe. Available at: https://www.coe.int/en/web/human-rights-education-youth/about-the-programme (Accessed: 25 April 2025).
2. Changemakers: Stories of young human rights educators (no date) Human Rights Education | Open Web Resource. Available at: https://www.power-humanrights education.org/multimedia/changemakers-stories-of-young-human-rights-educators (Accessed: 25 April 2025).
3. COMPASS: Manual for Human Rights Education with young people – manual for human rights education with young people – www.coe.int (no date) Council of Europe. Available at: https://www.coe.int/en/web/compass (Accessed: 25 April 2025).
4. Human Rights Education Through Youth work (no date)   Human Rights education through Youth Work. Available at: https://inyous.teachable.com/courses/inyous/lectures/11571455 (Accessed: 25 April 2025).

Το έργο Rights4YOUth υλοποιείται στο πλαίσιο του προγράμματος BUILD, με φορέα υλοποίησης το PlanBe, Plan it Be it. Το BUILD συγχρηματοδοτείται από την Ευρωπαϊκή ‘Ενωση, μέσω του προγράμματος Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV), το Ίδρυμα Μποδοσάκη και το Κέντρο Στήριξης ΜΚΟ.