On this occasion, they met and exchanged with EU Commissioner Jutta Urpilainen, who launched the Youth Sounding Board initiatives as a priority of her mandate in 2022.

The meeting was part of the launch of the AU-EU Youth Lab, highlighting the EU’s commitment to youth empowerment and the Youth Action Plan (YAP).

During the event, members of the Youth Sounding Board actively participated in brainstorming sessions and had the unique opportunity to present their recommendations directly to the Commissioner, focusing on governance, peacebuilding, economic opportunities, and education for displaced communities. Their voices reinforced the importance of youth-led solutions and meaningful participation in decision-making processes.

This engagement reflects the EU’s continued dedication to fostering young leadership in Ethiopia, aligning with the Youth Action Plan's mission to integrate youth perspectives into policy frameworks and ensure young people have the tools and platforms they need to thrive.

The EU-Ethiopia Youth Sounding Board stands at the forefront of these efforts, helping to bridge the gap between youth and policymakers. Together, they are working towards a future where youth voices drive action and change.

Learn more about the EU-Ethiopia Youth Sounding Board.