Expert Symposium on International Youth Work “Next Generation Democracy” with the Croatian National Youth Council MMH

On 26 March 2026, the expert symposium on international youth work “Next Generation Democracy”, organised by the Regional Youth Councils of Schleswig-Holstein and Hamburg, took place. Democratic societies are increasingly under pressure across Europe and worldwide. The conference addressed the consequences of these developments and their implications for international youth work.

The German Federal Youth Council (DBJR) contributed an introductory input on “Youth Work under Pressure in Europe and Germany”, highlighting the topic from both a youth policy and practical perspective. A particular highlight was the live input by Marin Capan, President of the Croatian National Youth Council (MMH), who provided insightful perspectives on the situation of young people in Croatia as well as on the political context of the youth council. In the subsequent workshops, current priorities and challenges in international youth exchange were explored in greater depth.

The conference also focused on prevention and child protection, as well as on international youth work in times of war and crises. An open format provided space for exchange, networking and joint reflection.

About the Croatian National Youth Council MMH

The Croatian National Youth Council (Mreža mladih Hrvatske, MMH) is a democratic, voluntary, representative and inclusive network of 77 national and local non-governmental youth organisations in Croatia. As a full member of the European Youth Forum, the umbrella organisation of national youth councils and international youth organisations in Europe, MMH is internationally recognised.

MMH was established out of the need for stronger cooperation and improved communication among youth organisations, regardless of their thematic focus or organisational structure. Its work is based on respect for diverse political, ideological, national, religious, cultural and other identities, as well as on the shared goal of effectively representing the interests and needs of young people in Croatia and contributing to youth policy processes.

The council’s work is grounded in democratic decision-making, transparency, openness towards youth organisations and initiatives, and respect for the independence of its members. At the same time, MMH promotes the strengthening of local youth organisations, the development of responsible partnerships, the promotion of tolerance and mutual respect, the protection of human and minority rights, and the active and responsible participation of young people in society and public decision-making processes.

Themen: Internationale und bilaterale Zusammenarbeit