Brussels, my love: Young and Anxious – The Quiet Crisis of Europe

This week, the podcast is joined by EU Commissioner Glenn Micallef, Samira Rafaela, Former Dutch MEP, now Visiting Fellow at Cornell University, and Rareș Voicu, President of the European Youth Forum. They discuss what it is like to be young in Europe, highlighting issues such as cyberbullying, mental health concerns, geopolitical disorder, and climate anxiety. Young people are feeling unheard by mainstream politicians, leading to a sense of disconnect. Commissioner Micallef acknowledges the EU as a “fantastic reality” but believes more can be done to improve the lives of all Europeans. He emphasizes the importance of the Erasmus+ student exchange program in shaping a European identity and expresses the intention to strengthen the program, dispelling rumors of possible budget cuts.

The panelists discuss the importance of making programs like Erasmus+ more accessible to young people across Europe. They highlight the positive impact of such initiatives on fostering a sense of European identity and unity among participants. Commissioner Micallef emphasizes the need for continued support for these programs to ensure that they reach a wider audience and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young Europeans. The panelists also touch on the challenges facing young people today, such as the rise of populism and nationalism, and the need for policies that address the concerns and aspirations of the youth.

The discussion also delves into the changing landscape of politics in Europe, with Commissioner Micallef acknowledging the growing disillusionment among young people with mainstream politicians. The panelists explore ways to engage young people in political processes and decision-making, highlighting the importance of listening to their voices and addressing their needs. They stress the need for policies that reflect the diversity and complexity of young people’s experiences and perspectives.

Commissioner Micallef, as the EU Commissioner in charge of youth, emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for young people to participate in European decision-making processes. He highlights the role of initiatives like the European Youth Forum in representing the voices and interests of young Europeans and calls for greater collaboration between policymakers and youth organizations. The panelists discuss the challenges and opportunities facing young people in Europe today and the need for policies that empower and support them in shaping their future.

The panelists also address the broader geopolitical context in Europe, with Commissioner Micallef highlighting the impact of global challenges such as climate change and security threats on young people’s lives. They emphasize the importance of international cooperation and solidarity in addressing these issues and working towards a more sustainable and peaceful future. The discussion highlights the role of young people as agents of change and innovation in shaping the future of Europe.

In conclusion, the panelists stress the importance of investing in young people and creating opportunities for them to thrive and contribute to society. They call for policies that promote inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment, ensuring that young people have a voice in shaping their future. Commissioner Micallef reiterates the EU’s commitment to supporting youth initiatives and programs like Erasmus+ and emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges facing young people in Europe. The discussion reflects on the importance of listening to and engaging with young people to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for Europe.