On 4 February 2026, young women’s voices took centre stage at the European Parliament during a public event organised within the CERV-funded project Voices of Change (VOC). The initiative brought together young people with a migrant background and European decision-makers for an open exchange on democratic participation, social inclusion, gender equality and human rights.
The event, organised by the Belgian-Italian Chamber of Commerce (CCBI) and hosted by Pina Picierno, Vice-President of the European Parliament, marked a key moment in the project’s journey. After months of collective work, reflection and debate, the 84 young women who form the European Consultative Body of Voices of Change presented their policy recommendations directly to European institutions.
Throughout the project, participants from more than 15 countries worked together to translate their lived experiences into concrete proposals aimed at improving public policies at local, national and European level. Their work was rooted in peer exchange, intersectional analysis and a strong commitment to inclusive democracy.
During the event, the young women presented recommendations across four policy areas, ensuring balanced representation and meaningful discussion:
- Gender Equality
Focusing on autonomy and personal freedom, this topic addressed the impact of family culture and gender roles on young women’s life choices. The recommendations highlighted the need for policies that challenge restrictive norms and support women’s self-determination in both private and public spheres. - Social Inclusion
This area examined access to documents, legal status and citizenship as fundamental conditions for belonging, alongside the importance of voice and representation in social and civic life. The young women stressed how legal uncertainty and limited participation opportunities continue to exclude women with a migrant background from full democratic engagement. - Intercultural Change
The recommendations underlined the persistence of stereotypes and structural barriers in intercultural interactions, particularly in relation to the labour market and the recognition of skills. Participants called for policies that move beyond symbolic inclusion and actively support intercultural dialogue and social mobility. - Youth Empowerment
This topic focused on empowering young migrant women through access to education, study time and decent work, while also recognising the importance of mental well-being and creative spaces. The recommendations emphasised the need for safe environments where young women can express themselves, build confidence and develop leadership skills.
Following the presentations, an open dialogue with representatives of the European Parliament, the European Commission and EACEA allowed for an exchange on future policy priorities shaped by youth perspectives.
The event was a powerful reminder that participation is not only about being invited to the table, but about being heard and taken seriously. These young women spoke with clarity, courage and strength. Perhaps it was just a small step, but on that day they placed their ideas and experiences at the heart of European democracy — with the hope that they will always remember that their voice matters.
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