Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event

Hosted by the European Commission, the Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event took place on 9-10 October 2024 in Brussels. It highlighted the transformational impact of the EU youth agenda, celebrated achievements and new partnerships and connected youth champion networks. 

Gathering high level policymakers and young leaders, the Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event showcased inspiring examples of successful youth initiatives; reflected on the achievements and added value of the Youth Action Plan (YAP) and inspire further action.  

Youth Recommendations were presented by members of the EU Youth Sounding Board for International Partnerships. They were elaborated through a participatory process by young people of EU Youth Networks around the world, engaged in the implementation of the Youth Action Plan in EU External Action. 

Preceded by the Summit of the Future and celebrating the 2nd anniversary of the YAP adoption, the Global Gateway High-Level Youth Event aimed to consolidate the foundations of the youth agenda in EU external action by connecting youth networks and showcasing the political potential of partnering with youth. The forum marked an important milestone for the EU and its partners’ Youth Agenda, underlining the importance of youth as a catalytic investment for the future. The forum multiplied the impact of youth action by strengthening the connection between and with all the young people engaged in our EU external action.

Our approach to working with and for youth

Nearly half of the world’s population is under 30, with 90% living in less developed partner countries. By 2030, 20% of the world’s population will be African, with over 55% of Africa’s population younger than 20. This demographic trend will significantly shape global economic relations and politics in the coming decades. 

The focus on youth is a game-changer: a well-educated and healthy young population is the bedrock of a stable society and economy. In a world facing colossal transformations, nurturing genuine partnerships, and working with and empowering  young people is not only responding to their legitimate demands, but also a much-needed strategic investment to our common future.

Adopted in October 2022, the Youth Action Plan (YAP) in EU external action (2022-2027) provides the framework for engaging, empowering, and connecting youth globally, making youth strategic partners in EU external action, particularly in implementing the Global Gateway Strategy. It aims to give youth a voice, to equip them with the skills and resources necessary for the green and digital transformations, and to create networks of change-makers, ensuring no one is left behind.  

More information and visuals: Global Gateway high level Youth event