open the Erasmus programme for students from all levels of education

In parallel, we are pushing for the recognition, validation and accreditation at European level of knowledge, skills and competences acquired through non-formal and informal education as well as of school studies abroad. We need to support education and development of young people beyond formal education systems including volunteering.

3. Access to culture, as a fundamental right of all citizens as mentioned in the Article 27 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, is an essential element in every person’s development, and in the promotion of social cohesion, youth engagement and democratic citizenship. Enhancing young people’s involvement in this field is not a luxury and can be done by supporting extra-curricular activities or by improving access to and involvement in cultural events. To this end, it is necessary to pursue the European Youth Plan proposal to create European Culture Cheques which would give young people a voucher of a certain value to create or participate in cultural activities. Furthermore, young people’s active participation in sports must be encouraged, as this contributes to the development of young people’s social relationships and their physical well-being. It comes together with their right to live in a clean and healthy environment, alongside enjoying equal access to quality public healthcare. Mental well-being has to be preserved and young people must be supported in case of bullying at school and cyberbullying as well as facing stress at school, in training, on the labour market and in their personal lives. 

It is of great importance to improve the participation of children and young people in community life and in its educational, cultural, political and economic aspects.