National Year of Youth 202

Overview

In 2024, the Government of Cyprus declared the year as the “National Year of Youth”, a landmark initiative aimed at empowering young people and enhancing their role in society. Coordinated by the Youth Board of Cyprus (ONEK), the initiative focused on promoting youth participation in decision-making, improving youth-related policies, fostering inclusion and equal opportunities, strengthening mental health, and supporting youth entrepreneurship and employability.

Objectives

The National Year of Youth was designed around six core goals:
1. Promote active youth participation in decision-making processes.
2. Improve policies that directly affect young people.
3. Foster inclusion and equal opportunities for all youth.
4. Enhance skills development to support integration into society and the labor market.
5. Encourage youth entrepreneurship and innovation.
6. Support youth mental health and well-being.

Strategy and Implementation

To achieve these goals, ONEK developed a structured action plan and coordinated efforts across ministries, youth organizations, and civil society. Key actions included:
– Creation of a dedicated logo and website, featuring a platform for listing and promoting events organized by both public and private stakeholders.
– Kick-off event to launch the Year, attended by high-level officials and youth representatives.
– Coordination meetings with 16 ministries and youth stakeholders to align policies and initiatives with the Year’s priorities.
– Development of a communications strategy to raise awareness and engage the public.

Activities and Impact

A. ONEK-led Events

ONEK organized 27 events across all cities and rural areas, including:
– 5 major festivals (e.g., Up To You(th), MakersFair, MountainFest) – ~5,600 participants
– 5 youth dialogues – 250 participants
– 5 workshops – 350 participants
– 13 recreational and sports activities – 400 participants
A highlight was the National Youth Summit, attended by over 250 young people and the President of the Republic. Additionally, two national surveys were conducted on youth-related issues.
Total participants in ONEK activities: ~6,850

B. Partner-led Events

Other organizations, including NGOs, youth centers, universities, and private initiatives, hosted 35 events, such as:
– 9 festivals (e.g., Nicosia Book Fest, Comicon, Windcraft) – 6,000+ participants
– 9 workshops – 500 participants
– 6 youth dialogues – 300 participants
– 5 conferences/seminars – 300 participants
– 6 sports and fun events – 350 participants
Total participants in partner activities: ~7,450

Total Reach

Across 65 events and activities, the National Year of Youth 2024 engaged approximately 14,550 participants, making it one of the most impactful youth initiatives in Cyprus to date.

Legacy

The National Year of Youth 2024 laid the foundation for more inclusive, participatory, and youth-centered policymaking in Cyprus. It demonstrated the power of coordinated action and youth engagement in shaping a better future.