Participating in youth movements

Síðast uppfært Miðvikudagur, 30/07/2025

It’s easier to change the world as a group than by yourself. Europe consists of thousands of organisations working to do good in different areas. Are you looking for an opportunity to contribute?

Here are a couple of steps on how to get involved!

Youth organisations and movements are non-governmental non-for profit organisations where young people are in charge of the operation and implementation of activities. They carry out projects with and for young people on various topics. Europe is full of youth organisations and movements looking for people to join them. 

Joining a youth organisation or movement is a great way to spend your time. You learn new skills, meet new people and contribute to something good. There are many causes that one can engage with, everything from your local student group or the homeless shelter to international human rights organisations or green movements. Think about what interests you, what you would like to learn or contribute to. That’s the first step in finding an opportunity that fits you.

Learn about the movement

Many organisations have ways that you can ‘test the waters’. Join an info session, experience an event as a participant or chat with someone who is already involved - all of those are great ways to learn a bit more about the reality of joining an organisation and becoming a volunteer. Another option is to follow their social media accounts, subscribe to a newsletter or read their publications to get familiar with what their mission is.

Plan your time

A common concern is that one does not have enough time to engage in youth organisations and movements, but don’t give up before you have done your research. There might be various positions that require that you engage a different amount of time. Pick what suits you and be realistic in what you can commit to. A general rule of thumb is to start small and increase as you go. Just make sure to communicate your availability beforehand, to avoid any misunderstandings. 

Enjoy the reward

Joining a youth organisation or movement is often done through volunteering, meaning without a salary, but what you get back from it is even more valuable! Being active in a youth organisation or youth movement can be a great opportunity for your social and emotional development. Essentially, it does not only make you meet some of the friends you will have for life, but it can also be a stepping stone in helping you gain professional experience and figuring out your career goals. While doing this, you have a real opportunity to impact on your community and contribute to change and decision-making. 

Interested? Here are some networks of youth organisations and movements. Browse through them, get to know their cause and if they have a local office next to you. 

• European Youth Forum - Network of National Youth Councils and International Youth NGOs. Find organisations in your country.
• World Scout Organisation - Join the world’s largest educational youth movement.
• ONE Foundation - Become a ONE Youth Ambassador and support its mission to eradicate poverty in the world.
• European Solidarity Network – Become part of the growing network of European Solidarity Corps registrants
• Fridays For Future: Be part of the global movement initiated in 2018 by Greta Thunberg
• Global Climate Strike: Take action against climate change

Many more international, national and local youth organisations exist, just look around and take a life-changing step into the world of youth movements.