07.07.2023

Call For Young People to Participite at the 5th European Policy Dialogue Forum in Rotterdam

5th European Policy Dialogue Forum “Young People and Social Inclusion in Cities” will be held from 13-15 November 2023 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The Forum will address diversity management and social cohesion in cities, particularly in peripheries, with a special focus on young people, including social inclusion of young migrants and refugees, through the lenses of interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

The European Policy Dialogue Forum is organized by the International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID) in partnership with the European Council of Religious Leaders/Religions for Peace Europe (ECRL/RfP) and the KAICIID-supported Network for Dialogue and enjoys the support of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Through workshops, roundtables and plenary discussions, forum will explore ways to leverage the untapped potential of broad-based collaborations that involve local policymakers, religious leaders and faith-based actors, civil society and youth groups, as well as international organizations. The Forum will catalyze a common reflection about the “material” and “immaterial” dimensions of social inclusion: on the one hand, policy and legislative frameworks, needs-tailored services and operational strategies that expand opportunities for livelihood and participation in the social, economic, political, cultural and religious aspects of life; on the other hand, creating spaces and opportunities for young people to be and feel accepted and included by who they are, fostering the common humanity that brings us all together, so that the diversity they bring is seen and embraced with a sense of solidarity and “togetherness”. Between 120-150 participants – one third between 18 and 30 years of age - are expected to gather in Rotterdam, Netherlands, from the Council of Europe region: religious leaders and faith-based actors, local and national policymakers, Network for Dialogue members, civil society and international organizations including migrant and refugee-led organizations active in the field of social inclusion, migrant and refugee integration, youth and urban policies, as well as countering hate speech.

 Objectives

  • Provide a space for mutual learning, where young people’s ideas, concerns and recommendations are voiced, including those expressed by young refugees and migrants;
  • Share meaningful experiences that can inspire policies and actions for enhanced social inclusion of young people particularly at urban level;
  • Foster dialogue and unique partnerships between different stakeholders, in particular urban policymakers, religious leaders and faith-based actors, young people as well as refugee and migrant-led organizations.

 Who can apply?

Youngs between 18 and 30 years who are actively engaged in their community, passionate about social inclusion and willing to bring their contribution and energy can apply to this call. Up to 30 young people who are residents from one of the 46 European countries (including Türkiye) will be selected to participate to signature event – the European Policy Forum Dialogue (EPDF) - in Rotterdam, Netherlands, on 13-15 November 2023. KAICIID will support all the expenses related to the participation of the applicants.

Application form here.

Deadline: 31st of August 2023.

Announcement of Results: End of September 2023

Contact: Europe Region Team- KAICIDD

[email protected]