Youth Activism for better Local Policies

Mindchangers -  The German regional Government of Baden-Württemberg was mobilised to improve policies for youth engagement and climate justice.

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The DEAR project #Mindchangers triggered and facilitated more direct exchanges between young people and policymakers, including through annual international youth meetings. 

In the German Land of Baden-Württemberg, civil society, foundations, and churches work hand in hand with municipalities to develop and implement development cooperation policies. After years of bottom-up advocacy, #Mindchangers helped the Land government officially establish the position of “Promoter of Youth Engagement and Climate Justice” at the start of 2022. 

The “Promoter” manages the youth network, including development cooperation actors, and holds a seat in the Council for Development Cooperation of the Land, which advises the government. In the Council, the Promoter ensures the youth voice is heard, especially focussing on climate justice and education for sustainable development.

The annual state conference on development policy, involving civil society organisations,  had been calling for stronger and more effective youth engagement since 2019. 

#Mindchangers produced a practical guide for municipalities to empower youth to mobilise for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using the guide, municipalities successfully worked with young people to influence development policies in Germany. Beyond providing practical tips, the guide also serves as an advocacy tool. 

For an overview of DEAR Programme impact, read other Stories of Change.

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^{Pictures: Youth and public events in and with Baden-Württemberg, Germany. ©EU - Mindchangers, 2023.}