The Future of North Rhine-Westphalia-Participation of the Youth as Part of a Social Transformation towards Sustainable Development

Abstract

Abstract:The future belongs to the youth, but do they really have a say in it? Learning processes with regard to a successful socio-ecological change must start in childhood and adolescence in order to succeed in social transformation. The youth cannot be a passive part in a changing society-they have to be actively included in its design. When allowed to participate, young people can make important and effective contributions-which should not be reduced to sub-projects and opportunity structures. In a socio-political context, participation means involvement, collaboration, and commitment. In the context of intra-and inter-generational equity, as the core part of sustainable development, participation strategies should be developed that allow for a permanent and purposeful involvement of children and adolescents. Participation of young people is an important and appropriate step in strengthening those who are so strongly affected by the planning processes but are otherwise powerless. A successful involvement and participation of non-professional actors requires a target group-oriented method, a supportive culture of participation, as well as clarity and decision latitude. Abiding by these rules leads to central results.

Youth and forecasting of sustainable development pillars: An adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system approach

“…The young represent the key stakeholders and participants in all the questions that refer to SD and viability, and “has the right of a sustainable future and the right of being part of this transformational process” [56]. They play necessary active role in the adequate decision making processes that relate to integration of all SDGs as well as to each individual SD pillar–economic, social and environmental [57–60].…”

Youth Participation for Sustainable Value Creation: The Role and Prioritization of SDGs

“…Young individuals are considered to be crucial stakeholders and active participants in discussions related to SD and viability. They possess the entitlement to a sustainable future and have the right to be included in the process of change [44,76].…”