Citizenship: Empowering Young People through Municipal Youth Councils
May 5, 2025
Network of Schools for Democracy
May 28, 2025
Within the framework of the European program Cities4Her, members of our Council participated in a two-day mission to the remote island of Tilos, aiming to transfer good practices, knowledge, and experiences regarding the integration of a gender perspective in local governance.
The Cities4Her program seeks to promote substantive gender equality in local decision-making processes through the active participation of the younger generation. The visit to Tilos was part of a broader strategy in which young people from four Municipal Youth Councils had previously conducted consultations with more than 90 Municipalities and 13 Regions of the country, focusing on the European Charter for Equality of Women and Men in Local Life.
During the visit, participants deepened their understanding of the importance of women’s active participation in local government. We became familiar with tools and practices for creating inclusive policies and actions based on gender equality. We took part in public consultation simulations and experiential collaboration activities. We were informed about communication strategies aimed at promoting and strengthening such initiatives. We spoke with officials of the Municipality of Tilos, learning about the initiatives and challenges faced by the small island municipality in promoting equality. We also exchanged experiences with the Youth Association of Tilos, getting to know the actions of the local youth and their active role in the island’s social life.
The mission to Tilos was a meaningful opportunity for youth empowerment, strengthening participation in political processes, and the practical application of gender equality as a catalyst for sustainable and democratic local governance.
Warm thanks are extended to the Youth Association of Tilos, the Municipality of Tilos, and especially the Mayor Maria Kamma, for the warm hospitality and fruitful exchange of views.
