Europe Youth Envoys Selma Kaymakci and Filippo Di Crescenzo took part in a panel discussion titled Intergenerational Dialogue on Challenges and Opportunities in the Field of Digital Development in Europe at the Regional Development Forum in Budapest on 24 February 2025. Moderated by Viktoriia Omelianenko, Project Officer, ITU Europe Office, the session focused on key challenges and opportunities in digital development, with an emphasis on youth perspectives.
In light of the preparations for the Youth Summit and WTDC-25, the Envoys presented the Youth Declaration on Regional Priorities for Europe Towards 2030. This declaration, created by the Envoys to reflect youth priorities in global digital policy, outlines four critical areas for Europe's digital future: cybersecurity, safety, and social resilience; digital public infrastructure; digital inclusion; and artificial intelligence. Previously, Envoys were also invited to present at one of the sessions of CEPT and the TDAG Working Groups , reinforcing the importance of youth perspectives in shaping regional and international digital policy discussions.
During the discussion at RDF, the Youth Envoys particularly emphasized the urgency of sustainable AI, highlighting its often-overlooked environmental impact. They also called for greater support for girls in ICT, addressing gaps in awareness about digital careers, and stressed the need for stronger AI literacy and ethical training. Annamaria Wettstein, the Hungarian Youth Delegate to the UN, contributed insights on the impact of technology on deep focus, highlighting the cognitive challenges posed by digital environments and the need for strategies to mitigate digital distractions.
The Regional Development Forum served as a crucial platform for youth representatives to voice their priorities and engage in meaningful dialogue with policymakers. The engagement of Generation Connect Youth Envoys highlights the importance of ensuring that youth-driven perspectives shape Europe's digital future.
