2006年-世界发展银行全球_Youth___Linking_Policy_with_Participation_Workshop_Report_56页_2mb

Workshop Report Summary: Youth - Linking Policy with Participation

Background

The workshop, titled "Youth: Linking Policy with Participation," was held from November 23 to 27, 2006, at the Flamenco Hotel in Cairo. It was organized by a partnership of UNICEF, GTZ, ILO, YEN, the Glocal Forum, and the World Bank. The primary aim was to support the development of the Egyptian Youth Consultative Group (EYCG), a network of youth organizations aimed at promoting youth participation in the National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth Employment. The EYCG was officially endorsed by the Ministry of Manpower and Migration (MoMM) and supported by the National Council for Youth (NCY).

Objectives

• To provide youth organizations with knowledge on national policy development and the potential of youth participation in the process.
• To equip youth with skills and tools for effective participation in policy formulation, implementation, and monitoring.
• To enhance understanding of key concepts such as Human Rights, Good Governance, and the Asset-Based approach.
• To create a platform for regional exchange on youth participation and its role in development.
• To strengthen regional youth networks and their capacity for cooperation and information sharing.

Methodology

The workshop was based on a theoretical and practical approach, drawing from the youth participation tool-kit developed by UNICEF. It included group discussions, SWOT analysis, and interactive activities. A lead trainer, Mr. Kamel Nabulsi, facilitated the sessions. Participants were divided into working groups to apply the concepts and tools in real-time exercises. A participation map was used to track the engagement of youth throughout the workshop.

Workshop Outputs

• Youth Training: Participants received training on theoretical, institutional, and thematic aspects of youth participation.
• Resource Matrix: A matrix of available resources within youth organizations was developed.
• Action Plan: A plan was formulated for youth to contribute more effectively to the development of the NAP on Youth Employment.
• Regional Information Network Proposal: A proposal for a youth-led, informal regional information network on youth participation was created.

Key Stakeholder Engagement

• The NCY committed to supporting the EYCG through its "My Right to Know" campaign and regular information exchange.
• The MoMM reaffirmed its support and agreed to organize meetings with key officials.
• UNICEF pledged to support campaigns and provide capacity-building workshops for EYCG members.
• GTZ and the World Bank agreed to finance a consultant to assist the EYCG in finalizing its governance and working structure.
• The Glocal Forum offered support for a web-based regional network.
• ILO and YEN reaffirmed their commitment to link youth with global networks and provide logistical support.

Core Concepts Discussed

• Youth Participation: Defined as a right, not a handout. It is voluntary, key to programs, and should be inclusive of all youth groups.
• Policy Development: A national policy on youth should reflect youth needs, ensure fair resource distribution, and involve all stakeholders.
• Youth Triangle: A model highlighting the interdependence of youth, government, and civil society for successful participation.
• SWOT Analysis: Identified strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of the EYCG, emphasizing the need for a clear action plan, enhanced cooperation, and stronger representation.

Daily Highlights

Day 1 - Thursday, 23.11.06

• The workshop began with an introduction to the theoretical framework, summarized in five key questions.
• Participants were divided into four groups: participation map creators, observers, entertainment designers, and time keepers.
• The EYCG's evolution from February to November 2006 was outlined using a timeline approach.
• A SWOT analysis was conducted, revealing the need for improved structure, communication, and inclusivity.

Day 2 - Friday, 24.11.06

• The session focused on the definition and value of youth participation.
• Key characteristics of participation were identified, including its voluntary nature, its role in personal development, and its contribution to democratic processes.
• The importance of a supportive environment, capability, and opportunity was emphasized, drawing from Hegel's philosophy of history.
• Participants analyzed case studies from Jordan and Bahrain, highlighting the success factors such as cooperation, training, and self-motivation.

Day 3 - Saturday, 25.11.06

• Observers noted increased participation and effective group work.
• The role of youth in policy development was discussed from multiple perspectives: government, private sector, civil society, and youth themselves.
• Renaldas Vaisbrodas, President of the European Youth Forum, shared insights on youth participation structures and emphasized the importance of joint management and mutual benefits.

Conclusion

The workshop played a crucial role in enhancing the capacity and effectiveness of the EYCG. It provided a platform for youth to engage with policy development, improve their understanding of key concepts, and build stronger regional networks. The outcomes included a detailed action plan for youth involvement in the NAP on Youth Employment and a proposal for a regional youth information network. The event also emphasized the importance of inclusivity, communication, and the creation of a supportive environment for youth to contribute meaningfully to national and regional development processes.