Politics · France · 7 hrs ago
France backs UNESCO call for greater youth role in political decisions
France's foreign minister backed a UNESCO appeal for young people to have more influence in political decisions.
UNESCO formally adopted the appeal, which was drafted by 145 young representatives from 135 countries.
It calls for youth representation in decision-making and conflict prevention, including bodies that work to prevent wars and mediate disputes.
The appeal also urges governments to set up an international framework for artificial intelligence and public ways to track whether its recommendations are followed.
The push comes amid student protests in France over young people's perceived lack of influence; some recent demonstrations have turned violent.
High school students plan another national protest on Saturday, criticising the political system and spending cuts and demanding to be heard.
France’s foreign minister backed a UNESCO appeal for a greater youth role in political decision-making.
The appeal calls for youth representation in decision-making bodies and in conflict prevention and mediation.
It was drafted by 145 young representatives from 135 countries and formally adopted by UNESCO.
The initiative comes amid student protests in France, where some young people say they have too little influence on political decisions.
The appeal also urges governments to establish an international framework for artificial intelligence and public mechanisms to monitor its recommendations.
- Who
- France’s foreign minister Jean-Noël Barrot backed the appeal, which was drafted by young representatives from 135 countries.
- What
- UNESCO adopted an appeal for greater youth involvement in political decisions, including conflict prevention and mediation.
- When
- October 20, 2026. High school students were due to join another national protest on Saturday.
- Where
- France; the appeal was adopted by UNESCO, the UN’s cultural and education agency.
- Why
- The appeal responds to young people’s perceived lack of influence on political decisions and seeks a greater role for them in decision-making.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
145 young representatives from 135 countries drafted the appeal.
UNESCO formally adopted the appeal, and France’s foreign minister backed it.
High school students were due to join a new round of national protests.
- Drafting group
- 145 young representatives
- Countries represented
- 135
- French foreign minister
- Jean-Noël Barrot
- Next planned protests
- Saturday, after October 20
What people are saying
Young people's voices matter
Peace among nations, like civic peace, rests on the ability of enlightened women and men to settle their differences respectfully, recognising that they share a common future