ERYICA represents Youth Information Workers interests at the EU Youth Conference in Dublin

2026

ERYICA represents Youth Information Workers interests at the EU Youth Conference in Dublin

From 27 to 30 September, the EU Youth Conference brought together around 300 young people, policymakers and youth sector representatives in Dublin as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Organised by the Irish Department of Education and Youth in partnership with the National Youth Council of Ireland, the conference focused on EU Youth Goal 4: Information and Constructive Dialogue, exploring how access to reliable information and meaningful dialogue can support young people’s participation in democratic life. The discussions will also contribute to the development of the next EU Youth Strategy, expected in 2027.

ERYICA Director Susan Flocken and ERYICA Board Member Patricia Venancio took part in the conference, contributing ERYICA’s perspective on the importance of youth information as a foundation for participation and democratic engagement. Their participation highlighted the role of youth information services and professionals in ensuring that young people can access trustworthy, accessible and relevant information, while creating spaces where they can engage in constructive dialogue and make their voices heard.

EU Youth Goal 4 is particularly relevant to ERYICA’s work, as reliable information is essential for young people to navigate an increasingly complex information environment and participate meaningfully in society. By bringing together young people and decision-makers, the EU Youth Conference provided an important space to discuss how information, dialogue and participation can be strengthened across Europe and feed into future EU youth policy.