Young progressives unite to shape a fairer Europe

Progressives from Germany and Europe gathered in Bochum, in the Ruhr region, for a festival organised by the Party of European Socialists (PES). Political leaders, content creators, civil society representatives, and citizens came together to discuss the challenges Europeans face, and how to build a fairer, more democratic Europe.

At a time when many people face uncertainty about their jobs, housing and future, the gathering focused on restoring hope, strengthening democracy and ensuring that the next generation has a real say.

PES President Stefan Löfven addressed participants in a video message:

“Across Europe, many young people are asking crucial questions: will there be a decent job for me? Will I ever be able to afford a home? Will the planet I inherit still be liveable? And does anyone in power actually care?

But we cannot afford to give up. We must fight. Fight for a brighter, fairer future. For societies where everyone can live with dignity, where opportunity is shared, and where your generation has the power to shape tomorrow.

Social democracy needs you, the young, to challenge us. So, take what you build in Bochum back with you, and keep going. We need you.”

The festival provided an opportunity to give the new generation a voice and to hear fresh perspectives.

Michelle Gnatzy, Leader of Jusos in North-Rhine Westphalia, said:

“Young people are tired of being told they are the future while being excluded from the decisions that shape their lives. They want a seat at the table, a voice that counts, and the power to change things.”

PES Secretary General Giacomo Filibeck, who joined the event, said:

“Europe’s future must be shaped by its young people, who deserve a real say in the decisions that will impact their lives. The far right wants to turn fear and division into Europe’s future. We choose hope, solidarity and action. Our message from Bochum is clear: Europe belongs to all of us, and progressives will fight for it.”

Bochum, at the heart of one of Europe’s major industrial transformation regions, provided a fitting setting for exchanges about quality jobs, democracy and social justice. Indeed, the challenges to defend democracy in increasingly difficult political environments were highlighted. Melis Asya Bozali, International Secretary of YENİ Youth, shared the perspective of young people in Türkiye, where opposition voices and elected representatives face growing political pressure.

Melis Asya Bozali, International Secretary of YENİ Youth, said:

“Our generation won’t stand by while democracy is under pressure. We will keep raising our voices together. Because fear must never be stronger than hope, and no government can take away our determination to build a better future. When democracy is under attack, solidarity is our strength. Democracy does not belong to those in power; it belongs to the people who refuse to give up on it. We need to build bridges across borders, turning our shared values into collective action.”

Mental health and loneliness were also central to the discussions. Through personal experiences and exchanges with experts and practitioners, participants explored how Europe could better support young people’s well-being and address isolation.

Quality jobs and fair opportunities for young workers formed another key part of the programme. Discussions included concerns of young people in world of work, the situation of trainees, and the need for strong trade union rights. Participants stressed the importance of giving young people real perspectives to build independent lives.

The gathering also highlighted the importance of translating young people’s concerns into political action. From decent work and mental health to democratic participation and solidarity, the discussions underlined the need to involve young people directly in decisions affecting their future. Participants were joined by Jochen Ott, Leader of the SPD Parliamentary Group in North Rhine-Westphalia, who has emphasised the importance of creating meaningful, high-quality opportunities for young people to pursue their dreams, fulfil their potential and build a future on their own terms.

PES Deputy Secretary General Thomas Vaupel said:

“Here in Bochum, we have seen what happens when young progressives come together: they organise, challenge ideas and turn frustration into action. This is how we build a stronger progressive movement, not by speaking for young people, but by giving them the space to lead.”

For the PES, the discussions in Bochum were part of a broader commitment to putting young people’s priorities at the heart of European politics. The exchanges reinforced the importance of connecting political participation with concrete improvements in everyday life, in an informal festival-style setting. The PES will continue empowering young progressives across Europe to turn debates into political actions.

Check the photos from the event