On a structural level, EYFA strived towards effective strategy implementation and strengthening of transnational solidarity and networks. Following the statutory meetings, we updated our strategic approach to better map out our target groups and further expand on tenets that are at the core of our work, such as youth access to rights and Inclusion, Accessibility & Empowerment. This was an achievement as the strategic approach acts as a guide and working tool to all activities undertaken and clarifies the vision for not only office staff but all stakeholders involved. The outcomes of the network meeting offered perspectives and shared practices of how to effectively collaborate and organize around pressing political issues affecting marginalized youth in different parts of Europe. The board meeting aimed at ensuring the quality of work flow, effective project implementation, continuity and financial sustainability.
The 2024 work plan focused on building capacity for youth within environmental discourse & social inclusion among marginalized communities. Through non-formal educational programmes, this was achieved by providing young participants with tools to advocate for themselves and others, while encouraging engagement and participation in regional & international cooperation and democratic life.
The highlights of the annual work plan were 2 international activities: Right to Stay, Right to Come!, a 6 day gathering on Climate Justice and forced migration that sought to acknowledge climate change as a legal reason for flight and dove deeper into historical causes & climate refugee movements support and strategies for empowerment.
Trans Empowerment Film Exchange was a two part (part 1 – part 2) youth exchange that involved youth from Spain, Germany & France that addressed inequality of access in film-making of trans and non-binary youth. It was aimed at developing skills of media making & supporting collaboration & exchange among marginalized youth.
Our life, Our Land took place at the Food Autonomy Festival & engaged local QTIBIPOC farmers on land access & rights, food sovereignty, permaculture & community empowerment through food activism.
Unconscious Bias: Understanding Islamophobia & Never Again: The rise of Anti-Semitism focused on the increasing discrimination based on religious identity in light of rising right-wing radicalism and its effects on marginalized communities. Participants emphasized the importance of solidarity among diverse groups and the need to engage with and uplift the voices of those at the intersections of race, class, religion, and sexual orientation among others.
Black Connected Struggles unpacked the intersections of racism, classism, and sexism to examine how one form of discrimination reinforces another, leading to intensified inequalities. Experts with lived experiences from the DRC, Sudan & Haiti shared case studies.