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Call for Advocacy Manager

Call for an Advocacy Manager



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25h/week

€2,251.99 per month

remote, in europe

10 months contract

Start march 2026

Youth and Environment Europe (YEE) is looking for an Advocacy Manager to lead and coordinate its advocacy efforts across Europe from March 2026 onwards.

To strengthen the quality, coherence, and impact of its advocacy work, YEE relies on the role of the Advocacy Manager, who coordinates and steers the organisation’s advocacy efforts across projects, policy processes, and thematic priorities. The Advocacy Manager ensures that YEE’s positions and actions are values-aligned, evidence-informed, and rooted in youth-led, intersectional approaches to environmental and climate justice.

Through this role, YEE strengthens coordination with member organisations, partners, and youth constituencies, and enhances the organisation’s engagement in European and international policy spaces to advocate for YEE’s values, such as youth inclusion in decision-making and ambitious environmental protection. The Advocacy Manager plays a key role in translating youth perspectives into concrete advocacy strategies, helping equip young people to meaningfully contribute to responses to the triple planetary crisis.

The Advocacy Manager mandate begins on 1 March 2026 and ends on 31 December 2026 (with possibility of renewal pending funding availability), with a 2-month provisional period. In preparation for the start of the mandate, the Advocacy Manager will be invited to a first onboarding meeting in late February 2026.

Objective of the Position

The Advocacy Manager is a central figure within YEE, working closely with the Advocacy Department, the Executive Board, and the Secretariat. Responsibilities include coordinating advocacy initiatives, supporting member organisations, and ensuring the implementation of strategic priorities.

The Advocacy Manager will collaborate with YEE team members, member organisations, and partners. Whenever support is requested for advocacy-related projects or events, the Advocacy Manager will lead coordination, assign responsibilities internally, and liaise with relevant staff or external stakeholders to ensure timely and effective execution.

Responsibilities

  • ⚬ Coordinating the YEE Advocacy Department’s weekly tasks and long-term timelines
  • ⚬ Work closely with the Advocacy Volunteer Coordinator to oversee the development of the Advocacy Working Group and Youth Scientific Advisory Board
  • ⚬ Supporting strategic planning and implementation of YEE’s 2026–2030 advocacy priorities
  • ⚬ Coordinating fundraising and reporting activities for advocacy-related projects
  • ⚬ Following EU and international environmental policy developments on areas such as but not limited to biodiversity and climate and leading YEE-related advocacy actions
  • ⚬ Supporting YEE’s representation in EU and international fora
  • ⚬ Expanding and maintaining external partnerships
  • ⚬ Supporting the development of member organisations’ advocacy capacities;
  • ⚬ Supporting YEE’s representation in EU and international fora;

Candidates we are looking for



  • Are deeply committed to environmental advocacy, youth empowerment and social justice


  • Have previous experience in youth advocacy and policy engagement


  • Are confident in professional and public communication settings



  • Can think strategically and translate priorities into actionable plans



  • Are highly organised and able to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously


  • Work well both independently and in a team, fostering collaboration across departments


  • Show creativity and openness to innovative methods and approaches in advocacy (e.g., artivism)


  • Maintain a strong understanding of European and international policy processes relevant to youth and environment


  • Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in working with diverse youth and stakeholders


  • Have the ability to analyse policy developments critically and advise on appropriate advocacy responses

Essential requirements



  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.


  • Are a resident in Europe, preferably already with an EU working permit.


  • Are younger than 35 years of age by the end of the contract period.



  • Be aligned with YEE's core values and mission.

Selection process

The call for a new Advocacy manager is open between 22 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. During this period, interested candidates are required to:

  • ⚬ Prepare your CV (listing relevant education and professional qualifications)
  • ⚬ Fill out the application form by 5 January 2026 at 23:59 CET

Shortlisting will begin after the deadline. Selected candidates will be invited for online interviews, to be held during the last week of January and the first week of February 2026, followed by an initial onboarding and induction session prior to starting on 1 March 2026.

Contract and remuneration

The Advocacy Manager will be offered a service contract and be remunerated according to YEE’s internal regulations, with a gross monthly amount of €2,251.99 for a total of 25h/week.

The Advocacy Manager must be able to issue invoices in compliance with their national legislation. Alternatively, candidates based in the Czech Republic may be offered a local employment contract, in line with Czech labour law.

Equal Opportunity

We strongly encourage applications from candidates who do not meet every point above. If you are passionate about environmental advocacy and youth engagement, are motivated to grow professionally, and align with YEE’s values, we welcome your application. We also value diversity and have a strong commitment to a diverse work environment. In cases of equal competence, we give preference to candidates who contribute to this diverse work environment.

20.12.2025 by
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Can the EU energy goals guarantee a safe and solid electrification of our cities?

Can the EU energy goals guarantee a safe and solid electrification of our cities?

The EU’s ambitious electrification goals promise cleaner cities, but recent energy crises show that resilience must power the transition as much as renewables do.

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Green loans and mortgages in the EU are financial instruments that offer preferential terms (such as lower interest rates) to borrowers for financing projects with clear, positive environmental benefits, such as improving a home’s energy efficiency.

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The transition to clean energy is reshaping Europe’s cities – from how we power our homes to how we move and build. Electrification is at the heart of this transformation, seen as a key solution to the climate crisis. Yet, as the European Union accelerates its green transition, recent events such as the April 2025 blackout across the Iberian Peninsula raise an important question: Can Europe’s energy systems handle the pressure of full electrification?

Urban Energy Demand and Infrastructure Gaps

To meet the objectives of the European Green Deal and achieve climate neutrality by 2050, alongside the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels), the European Commission has introduced a series of directives, most notably the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, which promotes and mandates the efficient and circular use of resources, the improvement of buildings’ energy performance, and the reduction of a building’s Global Warming Potential (GWP), a key metric for assessing emissions throughout a building’s entire life cycle.

European cities, particularly those with higher levels of energy poverty, are characterised by having many historic buildings with energy efficiencies far below the levels required to meet the established energy targets (75% of the building stock is considered energy inefficient, as noted in points 6 and 7). Given that buildings account for 36% of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions in the EU and that two-thirds of the energy used for heating and cooling still comes from fossil fuels, point 14 highlights the urgent need for a progressive phase-out of these energy sources.

It is essential to emphasise that all life-cycle emissions, particularly those from new buildings but also from major renovations and refurbishments, must be accurately assessed. This includes the selection of materials and a thorough analysis of site-specific conditions and climate factors, which are critical to the strategic placement and design of buildings.

The EU’s ambition, as stated in consideration 20, is for all new buildings to be zero-emission by 2030, and for the existing buildings to achieve zero-emission status by 2050. This goal may be reached through various strategies (consideration 22), including the integration of solar energy systems (consideration 32). Additionally, buildings must be prepared for electric vehicle integration, which will play a key role in both decarbonising and enhancing the efficiency of the electricity system (considerations 49, 50, 51).

Despite the REPowerEU initiative, energy-inefficient buildings (many of which belong to a lower class) remain highly vulnerable to energy price increases, as energy expenses constitute a major portion of household budgets (consideration 63). The Renovation Wave, supported by financial and administrative mechanisms from Member States, must therefore ensure that this transition is fair.

All the challenges that will arise with the electrification of cities must be grounded in a strong European energy independence, ensuring the stability, affordability and security of the energy grid, as well as an active state involvement in the management and implementation of the National Renovation Plans.

European Energy Dependence

In this context, the European Union has developed an Action Plan for Affordable Energy, which broadly focuses on “decreasing energy costs for citizens, businesses, industry and communities across the EU, considering the needs of all people, including vulnerable groups”.

This need arises from Europe’s strong dependence on fossil fuels and, consequently, from the price volatility of these energy sources, which has made Europe “more vulnerable to external pressure and global market uncertainty” 

Another contributing factor lies in inefficiencies and the lack of system integration within the electricity network, issues that could be addressed through improved interconnections, grid infrastructure, system integration, and increased flexibility. Additionally, operational costs and service-related charges also significantly impact overall energy prices. The full implementation of REPowerEU projects is critical for enabling Europe’s energy independence from other countries such as Russia, and must proceed with urgency, while also promoting an unprecedented expansion of renewable energy production. However, reducing energy costs and dependence alone won’t be enough. Europe also needs to modernise its energy infrastructure to prevent large-scale failures.

The Modernisation of the Grid

This Action Plan is structured around four core pillars: (i) lowering energy costs for all; (ii) completing the Energy Union; (iii) attracting investment; and (iv) preparing for potential energy crises.

The first pillar stands as a fundamental element in the construction and rehabilitation of cities, as it reflects the indirect relationship between the need for energy use and, consequently, the reduction of its cost. Therefore, the energy efficiency of buildings must be maximised (a challenge, particularly in the context of European city centres). Ultimately, this quality can enable urban buildings to achieve energy neutrality.

The Action Plan, however, outlines several projects and initiatives aimed at establishing integrated energy networks across Europe such as increasing the interconnection level of the Iberian Peninsula with the rest of Europe, the forthcoming Heating and Cooling Strategies (Q1 2026), and the Electrification Action Plan (Q1 2026), which must be implemented with the utmost speed, quality, and security to ensure the energy stability of European countries. One of the major current challenges, as reflected in the aftermath of the April 2025 blackout, concerns the connection of the Iberian Peninsula’s grid to the broader European network, as well as the development of a recovery and storage plan and a modernised energy infrastructure.

Funding Strategies

At the end of the day, it is funding that enables Member States to develop concrete and actionable plans. Within the directive referenced throughout this document, consideration 58 highlights recent initiatives aimed at increasing EU-level financing for improving the energy performance of buildings. These include the “Renovate” component of the Recovery and Resilience Facility, particularly within the REPowerEU plan, as well as the Social Climate Fund. For ordinary citizens, these policies translate into warmer homes, lower bills, and cleaner air. But the challenge lies in ensuring that no one is left behind, especially low-income households and communities dependent on fossil fuel jobs.

In addition to these funding mechanisms, “green” mortgages and “green” loans also have the potential to play a significant role in transforming the economy and reducing carbon emissions (considerations 60 and 61), namely as an incentive for the rehabilitation or renovation of existing buildings. Even with financing in place, system failures can quickly undermine progress.

The Social Impact of Energy System Failures

In April 2025, the Iberian Peninsula, Andorra (and some regions in southern France, along with parts of the European energy grid), experienced a major blackout that resulted in a widespread interruption of electricity supply.
This event, once considered an “impossible” scenario, generated instability and insecurity in the governance of the affected territories, which are aiming to achieve near-total electrification in the coming years. The instability of the energy grid and storage systems, combined with the lack of structured emergency energy recovery plans, has further reinforced public resistance in a population still largely hesitant about full electrification and household energy dependence.

Indeed, the Action Plan for Affordable Energy emerges at a somewhat ironic yet strategic moment, anticipating the urgent need for the modernisation and expansion of the European energy grid, particularly the connection between the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe. This network, supported by a strong energy storage capacity capable of responding rapidly and effectively, will contribute to greater social, political, and economic stability across European cities. In my view, a key shortcoming of the plan lies in its fourth pillar (preparing for potential energy crises), which should be further developed and detailed to address and prepare for potential failures within the system itself.

Fragile Grids, Urgent Actions

In a context where the European energy grid remains fragile, particularly the Iberian energy network, there is a pressing need to investigate, modernise, and develop action plans for potential energy emergencies, as well as to invest in effective and sustainable energy storage.

This discussion and conclusion raise crucial questions: Is it possible to achieve these targets within such a short timeframe without compromising the safety and stability of cities and the European community as a whole? How can we anticipate and respond to energy emergencies like the one that occurred in such a brief period? Can the EU plans guarantee a safe and solid electrification of our cities?

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18.12.2025 by
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COP30 Delegation reflection

COP30 Delegation reflection

Our delegation to COP30 has returned with critical reflections on the processes, outcomes, and partnerships.

COP30 in Belém was expected to be a turning point. The first COP hosted in the Amazon, under the leadership of Brazil, and one we hoped meant shifting from promises to implementation. It was called the “COP of Truth” and dubbed the indigenous COP.

We arrived with a clear objective: to ensure that the voices, lived experiences, and expertise of young people from across Europe were meaningfully present in UNFCCC decision-making. Because young people, especially those who have contributed the least to the triple planetary crisis, are already facing its worst consequences.

Together with youth movements and civil society allies from around the world, we pushed for just transition, climate policies grounded in science, and real progress on adaptation, climate finance, and closing the ambition gap. 

One (not talked enough) achievement was the adoption of the Belém Action Mechanism (BAM) — a one-of-a-kind cross-constituency legacy decision that strengthened rights-based language and inclusion of different peoples and communities. Day by day, we saw how sustained pressure from civil society shifted negotiating positions and kept justice on the table.

And yet, COP30 also reminded us of the limits of incremental progress. While Brazil’s presidency advanced dialogues on transitioning away from fossil fuels and tackling deforestation, these efforts did not fully translate into ambitious, binding outcomes. The hangover from weak climate finance decisions at COP29 was still present, and progress on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and the ambition gap fell far short of what science and dooming reality demand. Incremental wins matter, especially in multilateral spaces as constrained as the UNFCCC. But in the face of accelerating climate impacts, we must ask: Is this enough?

Beyond negotiations, COP30 highlighted the power and fragility of youth and civil society spaces. The Children and Youth Pavilion became a vital hub for coordination, learning, and community, showing once again how essential youth-led spaces are for meaningful participation. Even amid disruptions, youth engagement, side events, and coalition-building demonstrated that young people are not just stakeholders; we are important political actors shaping the future of climate governance.

We left Belém with mixed feelings, but also with renewed clarity. We need outcomes that match the scale of the crisis, and processes that allow them to happen. The work did not end at COP30. Governments, especially those in the Global North: we are watching, and we will continue pushing.

Stephanny, YEE Secretary-General and Head of Delegation

Stephanny Ulivieri

We went to Belém with a clear objective: to make sure that the voices and lived experiences from young people from across Europe were taken into account throughout the decision-making processes at the UNFCCC, and that our expertise was showcased. Because we, the young people, those who have contributed the least to the triple planetary crisis, are and will continue to suffer the most from it.

Together with our colleagues and young allies from across the world, we fought for a justice package that had the just transition, for workers and communities, at the heart of it, together with science and climate justice-based decisions on adaptation, climate finance, and the ambition gap.

On the last day of COP30, we left with a bittersweet feeling. The BAM (Belém Action Mechanism) – a cross-constituency legacy that became the most ambitious COP decision ever in terms of rights inclusions for different peoples and communities, was achieved. We saw, day by day, how the pressure and support from civil society changed the positions of countries and negotiating parties.

However, we left Belém without any major victory on any of the other negotiation topics. We saw a backtrack on an ambitious roadmap to transition away from fossil fuels being approved within the final text, we suffered the hangover from the bad Baku outcome on climate finance, and we did not see substantial progress on closing the ambition gap – NDC much? While the transition away from fossil fuels and deforestation roadmaps will continue to be established, under the leadership of the Brazilian presidency, I wonder if these incremental achievements are enough to counter the ever-growing triple planetary crisis we’re suffering.

We left Belém with the mission to continue our fight. We need these processes to deliver on better climate policies, and it has also become clear that we need better processes. There’s no time to waste. Governments of the world, especially the Global North back home, we are watching.

Connah, YEE Board Member

Connah Snape

We supported the creation of a space dedicated to young people, the Children and Youth Pavilion, through my daily attendance, manning it. It required extra attention due to the volunteer-led structure of it, but the space was actively used as a home base for the youth at COP30 due to it being the only dedicated space for all youth. That was until the fire at a nearby pavilion led to us no longer being able to use this, or any, pavilion. It was certainly missed as it became a space I was awfully fond of. It did mean our final side event about nature-based solutions was sadly cancelled. 

Speaking of side events, we had three within the first couple of days. As this was my first COP, I didn’t have much of an idea about what I was getting into. They got better as more experience was developed and preparation improved. The side events discussed the Just Transition, climate disinformation, and youth empowerment in climate change and human rights. The latter gathered plenty of interest from the COP30 participants, showing there is an appetite for this type of discussion. Sadly, the nature-based solutions side event was cancelled due to the fire.

Finally, we developed our relationships with Climate Action Network – Europe, Climate Action Network – International, YOUNGO, and NEYCA membership through various coordination groups, working groups, and meetings. We had the opportunity to meet members from the Global Dialogues project, which was certainly a pleasure. It was clear that YEE is a respected organisation, meaning we are doing something good.

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16.12.2025 by
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Climate Justice and Adaptation Measures

Climate Justice and Adaptation Measures

The most vulnerable groups to climate impacts are always the ones most protected through adaptation measures. Unfortunately, in today’s reality, this sentence is not true, and there is a long way to go to achieve that goal.

This article will explore why effective adaptation measures must always be just and inclusive, and present a case study of the Baltic Sea Region.

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Adapted Adaptation Justice Index Framework, showcasing the dimensions that occur most often.

What are National Adaptation plans?

National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) were established in COP16 and implemented at COP17. Their aim is to identify climate risks and corresponding adaptation needs, while outlining strategies for implementing relevant adaptation measures. Countries are encouraged to share their documents with the UNFCCC Secretariat and the general public.

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Why do we need just adaptation strategies?

With the increasing occurrence of climate-related disasters caused by droughts, floods, storms and wildfires, the implementation of effective adaptation measures has become an important topic of discussion between policymakers. 

In this regard, many scholars highlight that there is a strong connection between inequalities and vulnerability to climate change. One example is that marginalised communities often live in areas that are more at risk of being affected by, for example, flooding, and thus resulting in a need for more protection. Similarly, not recognising the special needs of these groups may also cause maladaptation, therefore, artificially putting them in increasingly greater danger in case of an emergency.

On the other hand, wealthier communities often live in more secluded and secure spaces. Furthermore, in many places around the world, these groups possess monetary resources and political connections that guarantee them better protection against any type of climate disaster. 

These examples showcase that the meaning of the concept of just climate adaptation measures varies depending on the context. It can be applied to different scales (local, regional and global), and relate to different types of inequalities (racial, religious, socio-economic and more).

Case Study of the Baltic Sea Region

Why is the Baltic Sea Region relevant to be examined?

Most importantly, it is a very unique space with one of the most vulnerable and climate-impacted marine systems in the world. The Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (HELCOM) is one of the main intergovernmental organisations in the region, which has focused on environmental issues since 1974. According to their reports, the Baltic Sea is already facing many climate-related challenges connected to the rise in water temperature, increasing sea levels, and the occurrence of less intense winters.

As a consequence of these changes, many areas in the region will become high-risk to live in due to, for instance, predicted high precipitation. These types of disasters have already increased in occurrence, as can be exemplified by the flooding in Poland in Autumn 2024. Therefore, with the increasing risks and need for resilience building, it is also key that policymakers think about making those measures equitable and targeted at vulnerable groups.

Climate Justice in National Adaptation Plans

Taking into account the knowledge about these high risks of climate change-related disasters and the importance of coordinated, just adaptation policies, what does the research show about the reality in the Baltic Sea Region?

My analysis was based on the Adaptation Justice Index framework, which allows us to look at climate justice in adaptation strategies from four perspectives: distributive, procedural, recognition and restorative. Per each dimension, there are several indicators provided, and depending on the extent of how just were the actions taken by the countries, a score from 0 to 3 is provided per indicator.

Distributive justice

Distributive justice refers to whether citizens have equal access to opportunities that would allow them to avoid climate hazards. For example, one indicator from this category could be whether or not a risk assessment was performed. There were 4 indicators in this category, meaning that countries could score from 0 to 12 points overall. The main findings were as follows:

Graph of scoring per country for the distributive justice category in the Adaptation Justice Index
Scoring per country for the distributive justice category in the Adaptation Justice Index, based on data collected by the author of this article.

In the context of distributive justice, the Western/Nordic countries have significantly differentiated themselves from the Eastern/Post-Communist neighbours. The former have scored between 67% and 100%. On the other hand, the latter group have scored between 25% to 42% of all the possible points. Many of the national adaptation strategies lacked risk assessment, scarcely identified vulnerable groups, and did not take the distribution of negative impacts or benefits of adaptation measures into account.

Procedural justice

Procedural justice refers to the extent to which the planning process of the adaptation strategies is inclusive and allows for fair participation of various stakeholders. For instance, one of the indicators in this category was concerned with whether the Adaptation strategy details who participates in the planning process. There were 5 indicators in this category, resulting in countries being able to score a maximum of 15 points.

Scoring per country for procedural justice category in Adaptation Justice Index, based on data collected by the author of this article.

When it comes to procedural justice, there was no division as in the previous category, and the results were slightly higher, with the majority of the countries scoring over 60%. The analysis has shown that a lot of countries attempted to facilitate open, continuous consultations; however, the vulnerable groups (as defined by each country in their NAPs) were only invited in one case. Similarly, most of the governments highlighted that citizens will also be taking part in the process of implementation, while it was not the case regarding evaluation and updates.

Recognition justice

Recognition justice can be understood as ensuring that each of the societal groups, especially minorities, is recognised and their adaptation needs are taken into account. One example of the indicator in this category was whether the strategy acknowledges adaptation as a way to secure basic rights. There were 3 indicators in this dimension, thus the maximum score possible to obtain was 9 points.

Scoring per country for the recognition justice category in the Adaptation Justice Index, based on data collected by the author of this article.

The lowest scores were visible in the recognition justice category, with only one country, Sweden, scoring over 50%. Unfortunately, the examined adaptation plans did not acknowledge that there are varying adaptation needs in society, depending on vulnerability level, nor that it is affected by socio-economic power structures. Additionally, most Baltic countries do not recognise that the right to adaptation is a basic human right.

Overall scoring of the Baltic Sea Region

Overall, none of the Baltic Sea Region countries has scored over 70% as calculated per the Adaptation Justice Index. Even though the majority of the analysed NAPs were very comprehensive and complex, including opinions of experts on the topic, they nevertheless do not account for vulnerable groups and differences among the citizens of the countries. 

Scoring per country for all categories in the Adaptation Justice Index, based on data collected by the author of this article.

While it is possible that the differentiated adaptation needs are more recognised on the regional and local level in many of these cases, the national strategies should stand as examples of effective resilience-building measures, building strong fundamentals based on theories of climate justice. 

Therefore, the most important conclusion drawn from this article is that the national governments around the Baltic Sea Region, and Europe in general, should increase their efforts to create comprehensive NAPs that correctly identify the needs of the citizens and strategies to implement those measures. 

At the current moment, similarly to other UNFCCC processes, the lack of binding mechanisms and requirements disincentivises Parties from making efforts to submit the NAPs on time and consult relevant communities in the process.

How to change the current situation?

The analysis has proven that factors such as international debates, political ideologies of the ruling government and prominence of public discourse on climate all shape the extent to which climate justice is applied in adaptation measures. So how can young people get engaged and make an impact?

Firstly, the topic of (just) adaptation needs to be prioritised internationally and get the attention of global leaders. The finance gap between adaptation needs around the world and actual investments has been estimated at around US$187-359 billion per year. As this year’s COP finished with the commitment to triple adaptation finance and the adoption of a set of indicators measuring the adaptation progress, now is the perfect time for youth to advocate for the implementation and delivery of those promises. You can join panel discussions, campaign online and advocate to politicians, on a local, regional or global level.

Secondly, with the rise of far-right governments in Europe, it’s clear that the topic of climate change is becoming increasingly neglected. In addition to that, what comes with this new wave in politics is also discrimination against different vulnerable groups, such as migrants or LGBT communities. This can also strongly affect the implementation of the just adaptation measures. Therefore, it is essential that young people engage in advocacy networks, meet with their local representatives and participate in national elections.

Finally, connecting the two above-mentioned points, is the need to increase the importance of discourses on climate change in society. The engagement with international and national politicians will not bring any change until the majority of the population starts caring not only for the environment, but also for each other. With the increasing polarisation of society, we begin to treat each other with hostility and suspicion, losing the ability to feel empathy for each other.  

Therefore, what young people can do is to engage with their local community and spread awareness about the importance of climate justice and climate adaptation. In this way, you can contribute towards creating a powerful bottom-up movement whose demands will not be ignored by the state leaders.

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10.12.2025 by
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Personal experience from the symposium on the Right to a Healthy Environment

Personal experience from the symposium on the Right to a Healthy Environment

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Understanding the Triple Planetary Crisis

This text is an outcome of the project Understanding the Triple Planetary Crisis through the Lens of the Right to a Healthy Environment, supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.

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In the weekend of 18 and 19 October the YEE advocacy project on the Triple Planetary Crisis was concluded during a two-day symposium in Utrecht, the Netherlands.

During this weekend, I joined nine other students from the field of environmental law, eighteen young environmental advocates and the YEE team to work on a draft protocol for the Right to a Healthy Environment (RtHE) which we hope will be included in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

The Right to a Healthy Environment (RtHE) includes ‘the right to enjoy clean air, safe and sufficient water, healthy and sustainably produced food, a safe climate, healthy biodiversity and ecosystems, and non-toxic environments where people can live, work, learn and play’.

As such, it can be said that the RtHE lies at the root of most human rights and – if protected – will be central to addressing our triple planetary crisis. This gives me cause for hope, especially since it has already found recognition in the domestic legislation of 164 UN Member States. Not only that, it has also been recognised inter alia by the United Nations General Assembly with a wide consensus of 161 votes in favour and none against. Other notable recognitions of the RtHE were made by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights in 2024 and the International Court of Justice in July 2025. All these developments are grounds for quiet optimism, and a feeling that our work over this weekend, and the weeks leading up to it, will not be in vain.

In preparation for the symposium, as LLM students we prepared a legal publication exploring the implications of the RtHE for the regional legal order. Each chapter was drafted by a team of two, with each team providing peer feedback to the others.

During the seminar, we presented our chapters in short form and received feedback from the audience.

While I thought all the presentations were illuminating, this is not the place to discuss them in depth. To give an idea nonetheless, I will highlight just one (of the many) interesting points that were made. The team working on the legal impacts of the RtHE examined the margin of appreciation as the ECHR’s means of giving States discretion in implementing of human rights. They explained that, while this flexibility helps maintain cooperation and respect for sovereignty, it also limits the Court’s ability to address cross-border and global challenges, especially environmental ones such as climate change and pollution. Because these crises do not stop at national borders, too wide a margin can undermine collective protection.

I thought this was particularly strong because, when a clear European consensus exists, the Court can narrow the margin and strengthen common standards. I felt that this presentation clearly showed that Europe’s caution in this regard has become outdated, and that a new and explicit recognition of environmental rights could make human rights law and environmental protection both more preventive and more effective.

To us law students, in turn, it was inspiring to see the work done in the twenty-three local advocacy campaigns, which were displayed in a ‘science-fair’ style during one part of the symposium. Fighting food waste, cleaning up beaches and making flower bombs. Simply put, it was impossible to turn my back without facing another inspiring project, always proudly showcased by its beaming propagators.

While this is still not the place for a deep dive – which can be found in the accompanying documents – all projects combined a mixture of research and awareness-raising with education of the public and real action. One example of such action that stirred me most came from a campaign that put the spotlight on bees as an indicator species of the world’s welfare, spreading bee-friendly flower bombs that sowed not destruction, but life.

With the symposium wrapped up and the project a great success with new friends and connections, what’s next? For one thing, we finalised the legal publication I mentioned. In addition, we prepared a Youth Perspectives document during the symposium, reflecting on the experiences gathered during both the campaigns and the legal research. Both documents have informed a final pièce de résistance in the form of an additional protocol to the ECHR, which was produced collaboratively by all participants at the symposium. All documents will be considered by the Council of Europe and forwarded to relevant decision-making bodies.

In this way, our symposium has created its very own verbal flower bomb – we can’t wait to see it take root!

More resources on the Right to a Healthy Environment

9.12.2025 by
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From Armenia to the Netherlands: A Journey of Climate Advocacy, Youth Participation and Connection

From Armenia to the Netherlands: A Journey of Climate Advocacy, Youth Participation and Connection

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Understanding the Triple Planetary Crisis

This text in the context of the project Understanding the Triple Planetary Crisis through the Lens of the Right to a Healthy Environment, supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.

Presentation of a local campaign

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How It All Began

One day, while scrolling through LinkedIn, I came across a post from Youth & Environment Europe (YEE) for a fully funded training programme on the Rights to a Healthy Environment (RtHE) in Armenia. It immediately caught my attention.

I’ve always wanted to contribute to climate and social justice, youth empowerment, and storytelling through impactful communication. I love discovering new cultures and broadening my horizons. Without hesitation, I applied and was selected along with 25 other young people. 

Learning and connecting in Armenia

The training in Armenia immersed us in the global environmental challenges: rising temperatures, pollution, biodiversity loss, and the way these issues affect daily life. We explored how environmental rights connect to human rights & social justice, and how frameworks like the Aarhus Convention can empower communities. We also met inspiring local organisations, such as Armenian Progressive Youth in Yerevan, who showed us how education and grassroots action can transform and inspire a community.

But what made Armenia unforgettable was the atmosphere we built together: open, kind, and collaborative. Between interactive workshops, cultural visits, and meaningful conversations, I found myself surrounded by people who share the same passion for environmental justice. 

Building Our Advocacy Campaign – Rights to a Healthy Environment 

Once the training ended, our work continued. We stayed in touch and developed our local advocacy campaigns. With Nadia Waclawiak, I worked on the coal mine challenge in Silesia, Poland, the country’s most coal-dependent region. Coal still shapes the local economy, yet its environmental and health impacts are undeniable. Water contamination, natural radioactivity, mercury exposure, and lung and larynx cancers affect the lives of many communities.

Together, we created a campaign on Instagram (@silesian_project_rthe) to share relevant, accessible educational content and raise awareness about the RtHE. This was paired with a petition to local authorities calling for a fair transition to renewable energy.

Reuniting in Utrecht

Months later, we met again in Utrecht for the final Youth Symposium on the Right to a Healthy Environment. 

The symposium sessions were eye-opening and diverse, but two moments in particular stayed with me. The keynote by Dr. Julie Fraser shed light on the role of young people in shaping global climate decisions. It is also essential to raise the voice of small island states and developing countries in the Global South – some of the most vulnerable and affected communities in the world.

Another highlight was the presentation by Utrecht University law students. This session gave me valuable insights into legal frameworks, protocols, treaties, and conventions. One of the most remarkable presentations for me was Chapter 2: The Right to a Healthy Environment in an international and regional context, by Mathilde & Manrique from Utrecht University. I loved the comparative and global approach: we got to learn about the protection of the RTHE in the Americas, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and of course, Europe.

The symposium also allowed us to discover each other’s campaigns. I was blown away by the creativity and commitment of my peers – from projects on water preservation in the Netherlands to food waste in Albania, bee protection in Georgia, and heatwaves in Portugal. 

What I Learned

Looking back, this experience reinforced something I’ve always believed: environmental justice and social justice are inextricably connected. Protecting ecosystems means protecting vulnerable communities, livelihoods, and public health. And real change always begins with education and awareness. 

My personal reflections after the journey

Beyond everything I learned, the heart of this journey was the group itself. This cohort became more than participants – they became friends I truly admire. Thoughtful, motivated, curious, generous, and sincere, they made this experience unforgettable. I felt constantly inspired by their work and also their kindness.

Looking Forward: more adventures, connection and engagement for our planet

This journey has deepened my commitment to environmental protection, social justice, and youth participation – the causes closest to my heart. It reminded me of the power that emerges when young people come together with purpose, compassion, and curiosity, no matter where they come from. It also showed me that our engagement doesn’t end here – it lives on in every campaign, every conversation, every work we do and every choice we make in our everyday lives.

And so, the story doesn’t end in this chapter. It simply opens new doors, inviting me into new adventures ahead. For the planet, and for its people.

More resources on the Right to a Healthy Environment

1.12.2025 by
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Building partnerships for climate justice

Building partnerships for climate justice

Find and build partnerships beyond the environmental field



Register

Practical information

  • When

    27th November 2025, 16 CET

  • Where

    Online

  • Fees

    Free

  • How

    Register

Related Project

This workshop is part of the Bridging Movements project – a new initiative of Youth and Environment Europe aiming to advance climate justice by strengthening collaboration between climate and social justice sectors.

 

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What is it about?

This 2-part workshop will help you find and build partnerships beyond the environmental field, get practical tools and strategies for collaboration and grow your organisation’s network in meaningful ways. If you are curious about working with social justice partners and interested in developing cross-sectoral projects, this workshop is for you!

The workshop is held entirely online and split into two parts up to 2 hours each. The format is different from a webinar or a lecture – we expect your active participation, and there will be some exercises to try out between the sessions.

Who is it for?

This workshop is designed for participants from youth-led climate organisations who want to collaborate with actors beyond the environmental field. We also welcome participants from a wider range of youth organisations.

What will you get?



  • Learn to conduct stakeholder mapping and identify potential partners outside the environmental field, while finding shared interests.


  • Gain practical tools for building collaborations that work, including approaches to communication and outreach.


  • Draft an initial partnership strategy or idea relevant to your organisation’s context.

By participating in at least one workshop in the series, your organisation will be eligible to apply for a micro-grant to turn your learning into action.

More details about the grant will be shared during the workshop.

Trainer

Nour Mohamed

Nour is a passionate Climate Justice Advocate with over 5 years of experience in developing and managing needs-based environmental Justice projects. Her belief in the power of data in supporting the development of inclusive and intersectional projects drove her to write her Master’s Thesis on the topic “The Climate-Conflict Nexus from an Intersectional Feminist Approach: A Case Study of Syria (2006- 2015)” at the College of Europe in Natolin.

Throughout her career, Nour has worked and partnered with several international and regional organizations including the Council of Europe, GIZ Egypt, the Climate Reality Project, and UN Women. Additionally, she has been actively engaging and volunteering with several youth networks and environmental organisations including the Climate Fresk, Banlastic Egypt, the Rule of Law Youth Network, EU Jeel Connect, Global Shapers Community, and Common Futures Conversation.

Other upcoming events

17.11.2025 by
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Call for Applications: YEE Youth Scientific Advisory Board 2025/2026

Call for Applications: YEE Youth Scientific Advisory Board 2025/2026



Apply now

7-10 h/ month

Volunteering

remote

1 year mandate

Start December 2025

Join the YEE Youth Scientific Advisory Board (YSAB)!

Youth and Environment Europe (YEE) is looking for dedicated individuals to join our Youth Scientific Advisory Board (YSAB). As a member, you will play a crucial role in supporting YEE’s projects, campaigns, advocacy actions, and training programs by providing essential and up-to-date information on selected environmental and climate topics.

This position is remote, and requires 7-10 hours of work per month on average. The membership of the scientific board will run for 1 year (with possible extension). 

Application deadline:

23rd November 2025

Your responsibilities

  • ⚬ Provide scientific insights to ensure YEE’s actions, positions, and activities are aligned with the latest research.
  • ⚬Support the drafting of position papers to ensure YEE’s advocacy is backed by independent, youth-centred sources
  • ⚬ Contribute with data and resources for the development of handbooks, articles, and other educational materials.
  • ⚬ Help build capacity and raise awareness among young people on pressing environmental and climate issues.

What we offer



  • An opportunity to influence and shape youth-led environmental initiatives.


  • A platform to share your expertise and collaborate with like-minded individuals.


  • The chance to contribute to meaningful projects that place youth at the centre of environmental research and advocacy.

Candidates we are looking for

10.11.2025 by
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Call for internal auditor 2025/2026

Call for internal auditors 2025/2026



Apply now

uneven

volunteering

remote

elected

Start December 2025

Open call for 1 Internal Auditor 2025/2026

Youth and Environment Europe (YEE) is currently looking for 1 internal auditor, with a mandate from December 2025 until July 2026.

Candidates are expected to be present at the Extraordinary Annual Meeting, which will take place online on Saturday, 13 December 2025, in the morning.

Internal auditors are independent individuals with the function of providing an objective assessment of the organisation’s:

  1. Internal controls
  2. Financial statements
  3. Adherence to the applicable laws and regulations
  4. Organisational standards

Internal Auditors are entitled to receive 100% reimbursement of travel costs (according to the YEE Travel Policy), accommodation, and vegetarian food for the days of the Annual Meeting (where presenting the report). The Internal Audit is conducted once per year.

How to apply?

All interested candidates are invited to fill in the application form including a CV by the 29th November 2025, 23:59 CET.

Application deadline:

29th November 2025

The Internal Audit (IA) is a monitoring organ. The aims of the IA are:



  • To assess the quality of YEE project implementation;


  • To evaluate the work of the Board and Secretariat;


  • To report the above to the Member Organisations (MOs);


  • To provide feedback and suggestions for improvement to the network.

31.10.2025 by
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Feedback on the Cosmetic Products Regulation

Feedback on the Cosmetic Products Regulation

YEE calls for a stronger regulation to better protect the health of current and future generations, and address our main concerns and recommendations for a revision of the Cosmetic Products Regulation
(Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009).

In February 2025, the European Commission launched a call for evidence for the evaluation of the Cosmetic Products Regulation to protect public health and ensure the safety of cosmetic products in the EU market.

Cosmetics and personal care products contain chemicals to which consumers are exposed daily, and may pose short, or long-term health risks. Given that adolescents and children are particularly vulnerable, as they experience prolonged developmental phases during which chemical exposures may have compounded health implications, the regulatory framework needs to ensure that it does not pose a health risk.

As a youth organisation we call for a strengthened Cosmetic Products Regulation that better protects the health of current and future generations, with particular attention to our recommendations outlined below.

Protecting Against Endocrine Disruptors through Restriction and Elimination

The use of cosmetics that contain Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and serious hazards such as carcinogenic, mutagenic and reprotoxic chemicals (CMRs) has been associated with a variety of chronic diseases. These include cancer, respiratory conditions, neurological disorders, and endocrine disruption. Since the susceptibility to endocrine disruptors varies with the stage of life, mini-puberty and puberty are one of the sensitive periods during which a hormonal disorder can irreversibly alter certain functions of the body.

Therefore, young people’s developing hormonal systems are particularly vulnerable to endocrine-disrupting chemicals commonly found in cosmetics. Driven by social media influence and the propagation of unrealistic beauty standards, especially among younger demographics, many cosmetic products have become integral to contemporary society.

However, there is a significant lack of information and education regarding the substances that these products contain, leading to widespread consumer unawareness about their potential health and environmental impacts. This inevitable and growing phenomenon supports the need for legal strengthening for the most harmful substances, including those impacting the endocrine, immune and neurological systems in cosmetics.

Consequently, the EDCs should be restricted and eliminated to ensure the health of current and future generations.

Addressing Toxic Cocktail Effects

In our homes and daily lives, we are exposed to hundreds of chemicals from many sources, such as flame retardants in soft furnishings, phthalates in plastic food packaging, and Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in cosmetics.

However, most chemical safety regulations still ignore the fact that we are simultaneously exposed to a mixture of hundreds of substances from various sources. Risk assessments must include comprehensive exposure scenarios that consider chronic toxicity, cumulative daily exposure from multiple sources, and the increased sensitivity of sensitive groups.

The European Commission should require that cosmetic risk assessments explicitly consider cumulative exposure to chemical mixtures from multiple products used simultaneously, rather than assessing single substances, considering increased uncertainty factors for sensitive groups.

Banning PFAS To Ensure Healthy Drinking Water 

Many chemicals, including PFAS, that are present in cosmetics (e.g. hair conditioner, foundation cream, sunscreen, etc.) are washed out, pass through the wastewater and end up in oceans, rivers, groundwater, and even drinking water. These substances hardly break down in the environment and can accumulate in water sources, complicating the purification of drinking water.

Given this, PFAS need to be fully banned from all cosmetic products to ensure healthy drinking water.

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Learn more about our work on Public Health

27.10.2025 by