Youth Policy Dialogue with Commissioner Lahbib

Young people with disabilities invited to shape EU policy 

Across the European Union, young persons with disabilities continue to face barriers that limit their opportunities, independence and full participation in society. From accessing inclusive education and employment to achieving independent living and meaningful political participation, many challenges remain — making youth voices heard is more crucial than ever.

To directly hear from them and to address these issues, Commissioner Hadja Lahbib will meet 20 motivated young people from across the European Union who live with a disability or are active in the disability field during a Youth Policy Dialogue in Brussels on 19 and 20 March.

Participants will have the unique opportunity to share their ideas, concerns, and expectations directly with Commissioner Lahbib. Discussions will focus on the issues that most influence young people’s daily lives and futures — including accessible and inclusive education, employment opportunities, independent living, digital inclusion, political participation and the transition to adulthood.

The event will contribute directly to shaping the upcoming EU Communication on Enhancing the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities up to 2030, helping define priorities and concrete actions that will guide EU work over the next five years.

The event will be moderated by Sophie-Anne Onland, one of the few Dutch moderators with a disability. Three years ago, she delivered a TED Talk titled How My Biggest Secret Became My Biggest Power and has since then hosted both small- and large-scale events across the Netherlands and Europe.

Joining her is Jochem Joordan, political scientist, presenter and founder of De Kiesmannen, an organisation dedicated to strengthening civic engagement among young people through theatre shows, podcasts and campaigns, reaching more than 50,000 young attendees across Europe.