| European Youth Forum – COMEM in Antwerp |  |  |
| IUSY together with representatives from about 90 other youth organizations from all over Europe met in Antwerp, Belgium, for the Council of members of the European Youth Forum (5 to 8 May, 2011). Continuous support for Youth Organizations at stake A central issue for debate was the future financial framework for European Youth Policy. Especially the pending proposal of the EU for the forthcoming multiannual budget-period is crucial in this regard. With their budget proposal the EU institutions set the framework for financial support that will be available for the Youth and their organizations. Youth does not pay for the financial crisis - Autonomy of support mechanism needs to be ensured IUSY fights for an autonomous support mechanism that does not instrumentalize our broader cause for narrow-minded economic purposes. IUSY stands against any attempt to cut down the available financial means, taking the youth hostage for the difficult situation caused by the current financial crisis. Especially now, in times of financial hardship, support for youth is crucial to ensure the inclusion of all young people and their opportunities to actively participate in society. Raising awareness for the last remaining colony in Africa – Western Sahara One of the political seminars in Antwerp covered the pressing issue of human rights violations taking place in Western Sahara, the last existing colony in Africa. IUSY is a strong supporter of the Saharawi people in their struggle against the Moroccan occupation and continuously organizes study trips to the refugee camps and supports dialogue initiatives in the region. For more information on the colonialization of Western Sahara and the cause of the Saharawi people check out http://arso.org/. |
