In line with the ITU Youth Strategy and within the framework of the “Generation Connect” global initiative, European Youth were called upon to contribute to the preparatory process for the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-21), in particular the Regional Preparatory Meeting (RPM) for Europe, through the establishment of the Generation Connect – Europe Youth Group (GC-EUR).
Youth declaration
A Youth Declaration presented at the RPM, was prepared by the Europe Youth Group. Through the Declaration the European Youth Group share their views on the challenges and opportunities related to digital development. The Declaration recognizes the essential role of meaningful connectivity for digital development and calls for specific actions in Europe in the areas of capacity development, policy and regulation, cybersecurity, environment, and digital inclusion. Considering the declaration, RPM decided to incorporate several proposals in the new set of regional priorities for Europe ensuring meaningful engagement of Youth in the preparatory process towards WTDC-21.
The Europe Youth Group comprises of 24 young people aged between 18 and 24, coming from all around Europe. This Group was established within the framework of Generation Connect initiative to ensure meaningful youth engagement and participation in the WTDC-21 process and WTDC-21 Generation Connect Global Youth Summit to be held on 6-7 November 2021, back-to-back with WTDC-21.