About the presidency
The Belgian EU presidency & youth
On 1 July 2010, Belgium takes over the presidency of the European Union from Spain, till 31 December 2010, before handing it over to Hungary. Belgium will confirm its role as a pioneer of European Integration, while being part of this novel Trio-Presidency.
Within the Belgian presidency, the different Belgian communities and regions will each take the lead on specific matters. Flanders, for example, has the authority to act on the international scene on behalf of Belgium, in the fields of Education, Sports, Fishery, Environment and Youth.
Youth under the Belgian presidency
Youth matters found their way into the Lisbon Treaty through article 165. Additionally, a new framework for European cooperation in the youth field (2010-2018) was adopted under the Swedish presidency (2009).
- For the first time a description of youth work was laid down in an official EU-document.
The Belgian EU-Presidency Youth wants to elaborate on aspects of 'youth work' within this new policy framework and come up with a resolution on youth work.
Involving all stakeholders
The preparations happened in close cooperation between different Belgian and European stakeholders and experts. To ensure that the final content of the resolution is based on a common consensus supported by all member states, the Belgian Presidency will organise two important meetings at the beginning of the Presidency period:
Both events will shape the content of the resolution.
- The Youth Work Convention will conclude with a Declaration determining the upcoming agenda and action plan.
- In line with the European year of combating poverty and social exclusion, part of the resolution will be dedicated to the accessibility of youth work for children and youth with fewer opportunities.
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