Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on The role of youth in rural development (own-initiative opinion)
Date: 2023-12-14
Institutions: European Economic and Social Committee
Subjects: access to education, civic engagement, customs and traditions, rural community, rural development, rural region, vocational training, young person, youth employment, youth policy








C_202401570EN.000101.fmx.xml












Official Journal of the European Union


EN
Series C













C/2024/1570


5.3.2024






Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on The role of youth in rural development
(own-initiative opinion)
(C/2024/1570)







Rapporteur:



Nicoletta MERLO











Plenary Assembly decision


25.1.2023




Legal basis


Rule 52(2) of the Rules of Procedure




 


Own-initiative opinion




Section responsible


Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment




Adopted in section


22.11.2023




Adopted at plenary


14.12.2023




Plenary session No


583




Outcome of vote
(for/against/abstentions)


193/0/1




1.   Conclusions and recommendations









1.1.


Europe needs the vision, commitment and participation of young people to build a better future for all. Rural areas play a vital role in economic and social cohesion. It is crucial to ensure equal treatment and the full participation of young people in both rural and urban settings.












1.2.


Comprehensive tools for collecting detailed data on the population, community involvement, and the needs of young people in rural areas must be created. Investments in research and analysis of disaggregated data are vital for implementing targeted investments, policies and services. In this sense, The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) welcomes the establishment of the Rural Observatory and encourages a focus on collecting youth-centred data and the exchange of good practices.












1.3.


The EESC stresses the importance of adopting holistic and cross-sectoral approaches that include rural proofing and the EU Youth Test to ensure a long-lasting implementation of EU policies that creates an impact.












1.4.


In order to make rural areas more attractive to young people, it is imperative that public, commercial and youth services, quality employment and education, digital and physical infrastructure, public transport, leisure activities and youth clubs be available and easily accessible.












1.5.


Initiatives such as the Rural Pact (1) and actions focused on youth (including education, training, sport and volunteering activities), as well as EU programmes like Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Corps programmes (2), LEADER/CLLD (3) and youth-led initiatives and projects play a vital role in empowering young people and enhancing their engagement in rural development.












1.6.


The EESC considers it vital to promote participatory pathways for generational renewal and for a more inclusive and multi-stakeholder governance model, involving youth organisations, organised civil society and policymakers and recognising the new ways in which young people engage through technology and social media.












1.7.


In order to stimulate a sustainable economy in rural areas, the EESC believes it crucial to provide quality employment opportunities with stable and competitive contracts, adequate social protection and support for entrepreneurship. Special attention should be paid to the NEETs (‘not in education, employment, or training’), women, people with disabilities, vulnerable individuals and marginalised communities. To foster fair competition, uphold workers’ rights and establish an equitable playing field, the EESC considers it necessary to enhance and strengthen collective bargaining, reinforce social dialogue and ensure the application of the social conditionality mechanism.












1.8.


It is fundamental to facilitate easier access to land and credit for young rural entrepreneurs and support the short supply chains in order to stimulate a sustainable economy and foster sustainable development in rural communities. We believe it is important to provide young people with agricultural land that is currently uncultivated, and to create a bank of land for those young farmers who wish to farm it. Through leasing young people will be able to produce efficiently on land that is currently abandoned.












1.9.


Training and education at all levels play a crucial role in promoting rural development. They should adopt a transformative approach, taking into account local situations and community needs. Organised civil society can play a key role and should be included in planning and implementing these pathways. In addition, we believe that it is important that education provides young people with knowledge about the agri-food sector in order to bring them closer to the rural world, explain basic food concepts and highlight the important role that producers play in the agri-food chain. To this end, we believe that the introduction of an agri-food subject in school curricula is crucial.












1.10.


The EESC stresses that a focus on addressing the skills required to manage the green transition and implement sustainable development actions is needed, both during the European Year of Skills and beyond.












1.11.


The EESC highlights the roles played by European rural universities and decentralised public services in providing education, training, orientation and guidance tailored to the specific needs of rural communities. Involving civil society organisations and enhancing and developing non-formal education could also be beneficial in this regard.




2.   Young people as a key asset for rural areas









2.1.


Europe needs the vision, commitment and participation of all young people to build a better future that is sustainable, inclusive and digital, regardless of whether these young people live in rural or urban areas (4). The current crises, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, the recent pandemic and the war in Ukraine have exposed the fragility of our current system and the urgent need for a paradigm shift towards the sustainable economy we need (5). In this context, the principle of leaving no territory and no individual behind must finally become a reality.












2.2.


The EU’s long-term vision for rural areas (6) aims to create stronger, connected, resilient and prosperous rural areas by 2040. However, despite nearly one third of the EU population (137 million people) living in rural areas in 2021 (7), significant differences persist between rural and urban areas. It is therefore crucial to ensure equal treatment and the full participation of young people in both rural and urban settings, and reinforce the rural-urban linkages (8) in all Member States. Rural areas play a vital role in economic and social cohesion, including in sustainable food production, however they also face the challenge of depopulation, especially among young people (9).












2.3.


The EU Youth Strategy 2019-2027 (10) serves as a framework for European collaboration on youth policies. It aims to promote the participation of young people in democratic life and ensure their active engagement in society. The strategy focuses on three fundamental areas (mobilising, connecting and empowering young people) and encompasses 11 specific European youth objectives.












2.4.


Youth goal no. 6, ‘Moving Rural Youth Forward’, seeks to achieve several goals:






—


ensure the availability of appropriate infrastructure, including public services, data connectivity and housing opportunities for young people in rural areas;










—


create sustainable, high-quality job opportunities that are accessible to young people in rural areas;










—


promote the decentralisation of activities involving young people, empowering them to contribute to local communities;










—


actively involve young people from rural areas in decision-making processes;










—


ensure equal access to high-quality education, mentoring and training for young people in rural areas; and










—


establish a positive image of rural areas and preserve and promote rural traditions.
















2.5.


Rural youth are valuable contributors who bring ideas, inspiration and energy to make rural areas stronger, more connected, resilient and prosperous. Their creativity and enthusiasm enable them to actively participate in rural communities and drive new economic activities that lead to job creation at local level.












2.6.


Recognising the crucial role of young people in rural development, it is essential to have comprehensive tools for collecting detailed data on the population, community involvement, and the needs of young people in rural areas. Investments in research and analyses of disaggregated data (taking into account factors such as gender, educational qualifications, nationality, possible vulnerabilities, etc.) are vital for implementing targeted investments, policies and services that meet the specific needs of the studied areas. In this sense, the EESC welcomes the European Commission’s establishment of the Rural Observatory (11), and encourages a focus on collecting youth-centred data.












2.7.


Encouraging the exchange of good practices is crucial for developing effective policies that enhance the potential of rural areas and make them more attractive to young people. Sharing experiences and using European resources can contribute to achieving these goals, ensuring that rural areas become thriving environments for young people. It is essential to recognise and promote the agri-food sector as a generator of attractive opportunities for young people in rural areas.












2.8.


It is essential to adopt holistic approaches that include rural proofing (12) and the EU Youth Test (13) across all EU Commission departments. These approaches will ensure the long-lasting and impactful implementation of EU policies, reduce inequalities, and consider the needs of current and future generations in both rural and urban areas. In this context, a strong connection between rural and urban areas needs to be ensured.




3.   How to make rural areas attractive for young people









3.1.


The Council’s conclusions on Raising opportunities for young people in rural and remote areas (14) of 26 May 2020 recognises that the EU population is ageing, especially in rural and remote areas and islands, and that there is a need to ensure better availability and accessibility of public and commercial services, quality employment and education, digital and physical infrastructure, public transport and leisure activities.












3.2.


These conclusions call on Member States to promote approaches to reduce inequalities between rural/remote and urban areas and to develop cross-sectoral measures that consider the views and perspectives of young people in these areas. This includes promoting entrepreneurship and diverse employment opportunities in agriculture and other economic activities, as well as in the social economy and in cooperatives. Member States are also invited to engage young people in local community life through various active citizenship tools and services targeted towards youth, and to foster synergies between EU programmes and initiatives such as LEADER/CLLD, Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Corps, the European Social Fund and the Youth Guarantee.












3.3.


Despite progress in some Member States, rural areas still struggle to attract young people, mainly due to the lack of adequate services, affordable housing, quality employment opportunities and barriers to personal and professional development. Urban and periurban areas are often favoured over rural areas.












3.4.


Implementing the proposals outlined in these conclusions would increase the attractiveness of rural and remote areas among young people, as their effective application would certainly lead to an increase in opportunities for young people in rural areas.












3.5.


Specifically, it is necessary to:






—


promote cross-sectoral approaches in developing youth policies and strategies to reduce inequalities between rural/remote and urban areas;










—


empower young people in rural communities through participatory models, involving youth organisations and organised civil society, and implementing the EU Youth Test;










—


ensure that Member States and EU programmes support, fund and prioritise youth services and youth clubs, particularly those provided by volunteer organisations in remote areas;










—


provide adequate gathering spaces (including sport and recreational facilities) for young people and youth organisations, with a special focus on those who are vulnerable or who have a disability;










—


improve travel options between rural and urban areas by investing in infrastructure and sustainable mobility, including local public transport services, which should be promoted and incentivised;










—


invest in IT infrastructure and high-speed broadband connections to ensure connectivity and access to digital resources;










—


support young people who intend to return to rural areas through targeted measure for renting or buying houses, and encourage the renovation of abandoned houses and land through tax breaks;










—


provide financial support for access to land targeted towards young people; and










—


ensure adequate social dialogue structures to strengthen industrial relations and ensure decent working conditions for all.
















3.6.


One of the critical challenges in the agricultural sector revolves around the age demographics of farmers. Alarmingly, only 1 in 10 farmers are under the age of 40. The situation is even more concerning for women, with just 1 in 20 female farmers falling within this age bracket. In 2020, some 6,5 % of farm managers in the EU were under the age of 35. Access to finance, land, capital and knowledge are particular concerns for many young people considering working in agriculture (15). Addressing these critical issues, as well as the generational gap and gender disparity, is essential for the future sustainability and inclusivity of the agricultural industry.












3.7.


The new common agricultural policy (CAP) offers solutions for Member States in order to support generational renewal and gender equality, including more support for young farmers. Member States are obligated to spend at least 3 % of direct payments to support young farmers. EUR 8,5 billion of public expenditure is earmarked to help young farmers set up, invest and maintain their business or activity in their first years. These strategies aim to help close to 380 000 new young farmers to establish themselves during the 2023-2027 period (16). A close monitoring of these measures must be ensured. Besides, it is also important to achieve fair prices in production and economic sustainability to ensure the viability of the projects generated. If the rural world is not prosperous and fertile, young people will not be attracted.












3.8.


The CAP network and the Rural Observatory should monitor not only the target of 380 000 new farmers but also the creation of other employment opportunities, all while exposing barriers, promoting solutions to intergenerational transitions, and sharing farming and other business models, including those in the spheres of the social economy and cooperatives.












3.9.


In addition to agricultural policies and funds, it is essential to adopt a robust inter-sectoral policy approach that takes into account generational renewal. This approach will help close the gaps between rural areas and cities. For instance, in order to make rural areas as attractive as urban areas in terms of opportunities and quality of life, it is necessary to invest in housing and gathering places. The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent increase in remote working have prompted many people to choose to relocate to rural areas. Unfortunately, digital gaps and insufficient infrastructure in these regions are still significant challenges, impacting telecommunication networks and hindering access to services.












3.10.


Initiatives promoting community engagement, cultural preservation, and intergenerational dialogue can contribute to the overall well-being and identity of rural youth. In areas where religion, with churches serving as community spaces, and civil society associations are prevalent, these initiatives play a crucial role in shaping the cultural fabric.












3.11.


Desertification, droughts and floods also pose a significant threat to European countries (17). Climate change, soil erosion, unsustainable water management and unsustainable land use practices further exacerbate the situation. Studies highlight that significant portions of Spain, southern Italy, south-eastern Europe and the Danube Delta are particularly vulnerable regions for desertification. If left unchecked, approximately 11 % of European territories could be at risk by the end of the century. This alarming trend could put crop and livestock production in jeopardy, leading to agricultural abandonment and increased vulnerability. Urgent action is needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change and to implement sustainable land management practices in order to safeguard European agriculture (18). Linking these efforts to intergenerational renewal will ensure the active involvement of young people in sustainable agricultural practices and foster a sense of climate justice, ensuring a balanced and sustainable future for rural areas.












3.12.


Long-term rural resilience requires intergenerational cooperation based on mutual respect and support. There should be specific mentoring policies alongside rural Erasmus+ and other empowering initiatives. Additionally, there needs to be more investment in apprenticeships, not only in agriculture and forestry but in other rural craft, cultural and business training to ensure the quality transfer of skills and knowledge. Including specific tutoring programmes for young people living in urban areas in schools or other educational contexts would be important in order to familiarise them with rural areas and farming activities.












3.13.


Farmers’ mental health issues and lack of free time pose additional challenges to the social and economic sustainability of rural areas and must be properly addressed. Experiences like the Farmwell Project (19) need to be properly promoted, supported and disseminated.












3.14.


A comprehensive communication strategy addressed to young people and developed by public institutions at all levels and organisations working with youth is essential in order to promote initiatives effectively and to enhance potential and opportunities in rural areas.




4.   Governance









4.1.


Youth involvement is crucial for rural development, as young people are advocates for sustainability and environmental protection. They should be at the heart of a more inclusive multi-stakeholder governance model, engaging in decision-making at all stages, from drafting proposals to their implementation, monitoring and follow-up (20), including through the creation of multisectoral platforms. These participatory pathways for generational renewal should also recognise the new ways in which young people engage through technology and social media.












4.2.


The vision, ambitions and demands of young people must be consistently discussed and considered, ensuring their effective inclusion in approved and implemented actions, plans and programmes.












4.3.


The Rural Pact, rural parliaments (21) and community-led local developments (LEADER/CCLD) are key frameworks for empowering youth and providing them with a prominent role. Increasing these programmes and initiatives empowers communities to effectively address rural challenges and drive sustainable progress.












4.4.


The participation of youth councils and youth organisations in the Rural Pact community at national level amplifies the voice of rural areas, fosters collaboration and leads to concrete commitments which need to be enhanced through holistic and territorial approaches. Exchanges of knowledge, tools and best practices between EU and non-EU countries should be encouraged.












4.5.


The representation of young people from rural areas in politics need to be improved to ensure that their voices are heard and that their needs are adequately represented.




5.   Sustainable jobs









5.1.


The agriculture and food-related industries employ over 44 million people in the EU (with 20 million in regular employment in the agricultural sector alone) (22). However, they struggle to attract younger generations due to a limited number of attractive positions and due to the seasonal nature of many employment opportunities.












5.2.


This lack of appeal to younger individuals raises concerns about the sector’s ability to adapt to complex agendas focused on sustainability, competitiveness and social and environmental expectations.












5.3.


To address these challenges, it is crucial to provide quality employment opportunities with stable and competitive contracts, adequate social protection and support for entrepreneurship. Digitalisation and fair competition rules for SMEs can also stimulate a sustainable economy in rural areas, particularly for younger individuals.












5.4.


Strong collective bargaining, enhanced structured social dialogue and the application of the social conditionality mechanism in rural areas and at subnational level are needed to foster fair competition, uphold workers’ rights and establish an equitable playing field.












5.5.


Another significant aspect pertains to women’s employment, and requires policies aimed at the comprehensive inclusion of women in the agricultural and food sector labour market to address related challenges. The provision of essential care infrastructure plays a pivotal role in enhancing the appeal of rural areas for women, facilitating their entry into the workforce.












5.6.


Efforts should be intensified to encourage and support young people engaging in all the possible economic activities in rural and remote areas, including through educational and economic support. Intergenerational mentoring and apprenticeship schemes and links to learning opportunities like Erasmus+ can be beneficial.












5.7.


Short supply chains contribute to more sustainable, resilient and diversified agri-food activities, create jobs and retain people in rural areas. In addition, young farmers and rural entrepreneurs often lead initiatives that renew traditional land-related activities. Public investment and support should be provided to promote and enhance local products. Young people engaged in these fields should be supported and sustained.












5.8.


Limited access to land and difficulties in accessing credit, especially for young people, pose challenges to agricultural and non-agricultural businesses. Among agricultural producers, small-sized farms, young farmers, new entrants, and innovative investments have the most difficulties in accessing finance (23). Facilitating easier access to land and credit for rural entrepreneurs, particularly young owners, can stimulate a sustainable economy and foster sustainable development in rural communities.












5.9.


Delays of 6 to 8 months for CAP payments hinder financial stability and planning within the agricultural sector, especially for young people, and need to be removed. Streamlining and simplifying administrative processes at all levels, from EU to regional and national levels, can help and actually become an incentive, especially for young people, and can also enhance governance efficiency and effectiveness.












5.10.


Employment opportunities in rural areas beyond the agricultural sector — such as tourism, culture and sport — contribute to the sustainable development and vitality of these areas and can attract young individuals, and must therefore be adequately supported.




6.   Training and education









6.1.


Training and education at all levels play a crucial role in promoting rural development by providing necessary skills and knowledge.












6.2.


Education systems should embrace transformative education, enabling young people to drive systemic change (24). According to a recent IPCC report, ‘transformative learning is critical because it helps to induce both shared awareness and collective actions (25)’. Transformative education, as per Unesco’s definition, actively engages individuals through hands-on experiences, observation, and a comprehensive perspective. It encourages holistic development and empowers people to participate meaningfully in their communities.












6.3.


The European Year of Skills 2023 should focus on addressing the skills required to manage the green and digital transitions and implement sustainable development actions. It should pay attention to the challenges faced by young people in a rapidly changing world.












6.4.


Training and education should be adopted through a transversal approach, giving consideration to local situations and community needs. Organised civil society, representing and supporting the often-changing demands of the people, should be involved in planning and implementing these pathways.












6.5.


Investment in skills and qualifications is necessary, especially considering the discontinuous nature of careers in the sector and the new job opportunities generated by the green transition and the circular economy, which require specific skills. Proper support should be provided to NEETs, people with disabilities, vulnerable individuals and marginalised communities in rural areas.












6.6.


The Erasmus+ programme and LEADER/CLLD should offer specific opportunities to develop leadership skills and enhance understanding between young people in rural and urban areas. This can facilitate their participation in a more inclusive multi-stakeholder governance model.












6.7.


Education, training and research play crucial roles in revisiting agricultural and pastoral activities for islands and inland and mountainous areas, facilitating generational turnover in family farming and ensuring sustainable and territorially equitable development in the EU. Improving the quality of human capital is essential for meeting consumer expectations for production quality and sustainability.












6.8.


A new generation of farm managers may be expected to have the necessary skills to: produce more efficiently, while protecting the environment; contribute to efforts related to climate change; meet society’s demands regarding healthy, balanced diets and animal welfare; and keep up with increasingly rapid scientific and technological progress. With a more qualified workforce, the agriculture sector may be in a position to increase its productivity and income-generating capabilities (26).












6.9.


European rural universities and decentralised public services are important for providing education, training, orientation and guidance tailored to the specific needs of rural communities. These institutions contribute to rural development by offering relevant programmes and services that support local needs. Involving civil society organisations and enhancing and developing non-formal education could also be beneficial in this regard.




7.   Best Practices for addressing rural youth challenges









7.1.


This section highlights a selection of best practices that exemplify the dedication and commitment of individuals, organisations and communities towards creating positive change in rural areas, and align with the recommendations outlined in the ‘Conclusions and recommendations’, illustrating the transformative impact they can have on rural youth. These initiatives collectively offer a roadmap for building a better future for all, where rural areas play a vital role in economic and social cohesion, and young people are granted equal treatment and full participation in both rural and urban settings.












7.2.


On the promotion of data collection and youth-centred research to guide targeted investments and policies, the EU CAP network’s Thematic Group on Rural Youth Employment (27) identifies challenges faced by youth across the European Union and promotes exchanges of ideas and initiatives, facilitating data- and knowledge-sharing. The Rural Pact Community can also be instrumental in data collection and community involvement efforts.












7.3.


On the need to make rural areas attractive to young people, the Rural Pact community, the European Education Area (28), the innovative social startup ‘Ca’ Colonna’ (29) and EU programmes like Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps rise to the occasion to play a vital role in empowering young people, enhancing their engagement in rural development, and making such services accessible to them. These initiatives ensure quality services, employment, education, and accessible infrastructure.












7.4.


On the promotion of generational renewal and multi-stakeholder governance, the COCOREADO project (30), the UN Youth2030 (31) and the RURBEST22 (32) project empower youth, encourage collaboration, and recognise evolving ways that youth engage through technology and social media, aligning with the EESC’s call for participatory pathways. The Rural Pact community also promotes multi-stakeholder governance and the involvement of youth and policymakers.












7.5.


On the importance of sustainable economy and quality employment, the European School Education platform (33) and the new Erasmus and European Solidarity Corps programmes offer quality education, training, and stable employment contracts. These programmes also advocate for workers’ rights and an equitable playing field, resonating with our commitment to fostering quality employment opportunities. Here again, the Rural Pact community plays a role in advocating for employment opportunities in rural areas.












7.6.


Turning to the recommendation to facilitate access to land and credit, the Maritime Public Domain (34) initiative in France opens the door for young rural entrepreneurs, simplifying land access. In doing so, it supports the EESC’s vision of easier land and credit access for rural entrepreneurs and sustainable economic growth.












7.7.


The recommendation for transversal education and training is complemented by the European School Education platform, the COCOREADO project and Eco-Schools (35). These practices support education at all levels, tailored to local needs, and reflect the significance of transversal education and community involvement. The World Food Forum’s Youth Action for a Better Food Future (36) also involves training and education at various levels related to sustainable food systems.












7.8.


The call for a focus on skills for the green transition finds resonance in the World Food Forum’s Youth Action for a Better Food Future, which plays a vital role in addressing skills required for the green transition and sustainable development actions, particularly in the context of food systems and agriculture.












7.9.


Lastly, on acknowledging the roles of rural universities, decentralisation, and non-formal education, the European School Education platform and the COCOREADO project showcase how education, orientation and guidance tailored to rural communities are vital. Their emphasis on civil society involvement aligns perfectly with the role civil society plays in rural development.






Brussels, 14 December 2023.


The President of the European Economic and Social Committee

Oliver RÖPKE
            





(1)  https://ruralpact.rural-vision.europa.eu/rural-pact_en.

(2)  https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_21_5402.

(3)  https://ec.europa.eu/enrd/leader-clld_en.html.

(4)  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee ‘Towards a holistic strategy on sustainable rural/urban development’ (OJ C 105, 4.3.2022, p. 49).

(5)  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on ‘The sustainable economy we need’ (OJ C 106, 31.3.2020, p. 1).

(6)  COM(2021) 345.

(7)  Urban-rural Europe — introduction, Eurostat (https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Urban-rural_Europe_-_introduction#Area_and_population).

(8)  https://www.iied.org/rural-urban-linkages.

(9)  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee: Long-term Vision for the EU’s Rural Areas (OJ C 290, 29.7.2022, p. 137).

(10)  https://youth.europa.eu/strategy_en.

(11)  https://observatory.rural-vision.europa.eu.

(12)  https://rural-vision.europa.eu/action-plan/cross-cutting/rural-proofing_en.

(13)  https://www.youthforum.org/topics/eu-youth-test.

(14)  
            OJ C 193, 9.6.2020, p. 3.

(15)  Eurostat regional yearbook 2023.

(16)  CAP 2023-27: Young farmers, European Commission.

(17)  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on ‘Sustainable water management and climate emergency: circular and other solutions for the EU agri-food system in a future “Blue Deal”
            ’ (OJ C 349, 29.9.2023, p. 80).

(18)  Desertification and agriculture, EPRS.

(19)  https://farmwell-h2020.eu.

(20)  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee: Long-term Vision for the EU’s Rural Areas (OJ C 290, 29.7.2022, p. 137) and Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on ‘Towards structured youth engagement on climate and sustainability in the EU decision-making process’ (OJ C 429, 11.12.2020, p. 44).

(21)  https://europeanruralparliament.com/index.php/home/about-us.

(22)  Agriculture — EU action (https://european-union.europa.eu/priorities-and-actions/actions-topic/agriculture_en).

(23)  Financial needs in the agriculture and agri-food sectors in the European Union, fi-compass, 2020.

(24)  Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on ‘Empowering youth to achieve sustainable development through education’ (OJ C 100, 16.3.2023, p. 38).

(25)  Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of climate change, p. 2871.

(26)  Eurostat regional yearbook 2023.

(27)  https://eu-cap-network.ec.europa.eu/thematic-group-rural-youth-employment-voice-rural-youth_en.

(28)  https://education.ec.europa.eu.

(29)  https://www.cacolonna.it.

(30)  https://cocoreado.eu/cocoreado.

(31)  https://www.unyouth2030.com.

(32)  http://elard.eu/actions/rural-youth-in-action-from-local-to-european-level.

(33)  https://school-education.ec.europa.eu/en.

(34)  https://strugglesforlandforum.net/un-exemple-de-gestion-des-communs-lespace-public-maritime.

(35)  https://www.ecoschools.global.

(36)  https://www.world-food-forum.org/youth-action/en.


ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/C/2024/1570/oj
ISSN 1977-091X (electronic edition)