As young socialists and social democrats, the most important thing for us is the well-being of all people, the opportunity to live with dignity and freedom in accordance with our values and desires. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, human health and economic security were threatened. This situation has shown us that the only way to overcome difficulties caused by COVID-19 is to embrace solidarity and collaboration. 

During the two-day meeting (24-25 June) we, as BRT Committee, have discussed challenges that our countries have been facing during the pandemic, what consequences it has left and what is the current political, socio-economic situation. Everything we have heard has upset us greatly, but we are optimistic that our region will emerge stronger from the crisis thanks to societies who have shown exceptional solidarity, discipline and acted responsibly.

However, we must draw attention to a group that was particularly affected during this crisis, and that is young people, primarily students and those who lost their jobs. 

Education.Many students worldwide are having their education disrupted by the spread of Coronavirus. Students were the first one who changed their lifestyle with the closure of educational institutions. We are not sure how effective online classrooms were. There are young people without internet access, without technical support. Many face difficulties paying their tuition fees.In this uncertain situation, it’s important that the educational process continues in an inclusive way

Jobs and employment.Young people are most likely to have lost jobs or seen their income drop because of Covid-19. As a group that finds it difficult to get a job, this especially affects young people and the situation is yet to worsen. Youth unemployment rates will increase and many young people will fall into poverty, this is why concrete measures are needed to protect young people.

Mental health.The aspect of the mental health of young people is especially important to us, which was significantly endangered during this period. Social distancing, isolation and uncertainty, loss of job opportunities will cause anxiety, fear of the unknown and stress. The Covid-19 pandemic will have serious long-term consequences for young people’s mental health. It can be expected that demotivation and deterioration of mental health will increase the desire of young people to emigrate leaving a lot of countries in the region with brain drain issues. 

Long-term consequences on youth are yet to be seen and our duty is to prevent it. We encourage all youth organisations in the region to suggest ways and cooperate to overcome this crisis in the fairest way. 

We must work to keep young people in the region and provide them with the security and dignified working and living conditions they deserve.

Taking all this into account, we appeal to the governments in the region to focus on creating policies whose timely implementation will reduce the consequences on the well-being of young people and support for overcoming the crisis.

Young people’s voices must not be ignored, especially at these challenging times where their contribution is crucial.