Malta is set to host the 4th European Youth Work Convention, a pivotal event that will shape the future of youth work across Europe, from 27 to 30 May 2025.

Since its inception in 2010, the convention has served as a crucial platform for youth workers, policymakers, and researchers to advance the European Youth Work Agenda, ensuring that youth work is recognised as an essential element in both policy and practice across Europe.

Under the theme “Youth Work Xcelerate”, the convention will focus on driving progress, innovation, and excellence in youth work by enhancing standards, recognition, and quality across Europe. The event will also establish a European Roadmap designed to strengthen the effectiveness of youth work and ensure its long-term sustainability through national and European policies.

Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Malta’s Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, underscored the importance of the convention in shaping the future of youth work.

“For far too long, youth work has been undervalued, often seen as voluntary, informal, and secondary to mainstream education and employment strategies. But let me be clear: youth work is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the foundation upon which we build a stronger, more democratic Europe,” Azzopardi Tanti stated.

“This convention is not just a series of discussions; it is a call to action. We are ensuring that youth work is no longer an afterthought but a pillar of democracy, social cohesion, and innovation.”

Matjaž Gruden, Director for Democracy at the Council of Europe, also highlighted the convention’s significance. “The European Youth Work Convention in May will bring together nearly 500 experts, youth workers, and decision-makers to shape the future of youth work. In October, European Ministers responsible for youth will meet in Malta to turn these discussions into concrete actions, ensuring that youth work becomes a cornerstone of a thriving and resilient democracy in Europe.”

Michael Teutsch, Acting Director of Youth, Education, and Erasmus+ at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport, and Culture, emphasised the convention’s role in shaping EU youth policies. “My colleagues and I are working on the next EU Youth Strategy and youth programmes beyond 2027. We hope the outcomes of this convention can bring fresh ideas from the community of practice into those processes.”

Nina Grmusa, Chair of the Joint Council for Youth of the Council of Europe, stressed the importance of youth-led initiatives in advancing democracy. “Youth work, particularly volunteer-based and youth-led initiatives, is vital for nurturing and developing a democratic culture. We are grateful that Malta is hosting the 4th EYWC, which is a key step in strengthening quality and innovative youth work across Council of Europe member states. Young people and their organisations play a critical role in advancing democracy and human rights.”

Malta has a long-standing commitment to youth work, with institutions such as Aġenzija Żgħażagħ playing a crucial role in providing programmes and support for young people. Additionally, the European Union Programmes Agency (EUPA) continues to facilitate EU-funded opportunities that enhance the youth work sector both in Malta and across Europe.

With a shared vision and commitment from European institutions, youth organisations, and decision-makers, the 4th European Youth Work Convention in Malta is poised to be a catalyst for action, investment, and transformation in youth work across Europe.

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