Treaty of Middelburg
I believe the world needs to empower youth and give them the platform to actively participate in decision-making processes. Freedom should not be an ideal, but a reality for everyone. The United Nations Youth 2030 Strategy emphasizes the importance of youth participation at all levels and I support this vision. We need to create more opportunities for young people to take on leadership roles and engage with governments and international organizations. My goal is to help create a world where freedom is not just a word, but a lived experience for all young people, through collaboration, global dialogue, and shared action.
Team members
- ■ Martin Birdi
Why do you want to participate?
I am eager to connect with young people from different backgrounds to explore diverse understandings of freedom and democracy. The Youth Treaty Conference is a unique opportunity to reflect in a safe and open space, exchange perspectives, and strengthen our shared responsibility for change. As a student of Peace and Conflict Studies in Germany, I am particularly excited to deepen my academic insights through dialogue and real-life experiences. We can shape a future built on empathy, justice, and collaboration.
What does freedom mean to you?
Freedom means being able to express who I am and what I believe, without fear of being judged or silenced. It’s about living in a society where everyone, no matter their background, has equal access to safety, healthcare, and education. As someone studying Peace and Conflict Studies, I believe that true freedom also means protecting those who are most vulnerable and making sure that everyone, especially young people, has a voice in shaping the future. Freedom isn’t just a personal right, it’s a shared responsibility.
What are the biggest challenges?
Young people face growing challenges to their freedom, especially those living in conflict zones or under constant digital surveillance. I’m deeply concerned about how discrimination and systemic barriers continue to hold back youth from marginalized communities who simply want to live authentically and safely. For young migrants, refugees, and stateless people, the struggle for basic rights like education, healthcare, and protection is even harder.
Do you have a message?
Freedom is not just a word. It is a fundamental right that every young person deserves to experience and protect. We must create spaces where youth are not just heard, but actively shape the future they will inherit. Young people must be seen as change-makers, not passive recipients of decisions. If we don’t take action now, who will?
