Olsztynek Youth Council – smart governance in Warmia-Mazury
About this good practice
The problem identified was an outflow of young people from rural areas. Olsztynek Municipality decided to engage young people in decision making processes. The Youth City Council in Olsztynek was established in 2004. The Youth City Council that works with municipality and actively participates in the development of local government. There is interaction from the residents, there is feedback from the local people that is heard, they have influence on the decision making process.
The good practice is about the approach that has been created and implemented through more than 20 years. Olsztynek Mayors represented the approach to include youth in the decision making proceeses. For example the current Mayor of Olsztynek, as one of the young man engaged in the Youth Council 20 year ago. He was a member of Youth Council, then, a member of the City Council for 12 years, and then was elected as Mayor of Olsztynek. Two present members of City Council have also been members of Youth Council in the past. A member of Youth Council has been elected to the Regional Youth Council of Warmia and Mazury.
This attracts young people to take part in various initiatives for the whole municipality. They are listened and take part in decision-making process. This smart governance approach promotes Olsztynek Municipality. Olsztynek Municipality is open for bottom-up initiative, also including social cooperatives on rural areas.
Resources needed
The Youth City Council is included the budget of the Olsztynek Municipality, it does not include specific projects or actions, but it is a result of the approach to smart governance.
Evidence of success
Two present members of City Council have also been members of the Youth Council in the past. A member of the Youth Council has been elected to the Regional Youth Council of Warmia and Mazury. This means Youth Council has real impact on governance in Olsztynek Municipality. Youth Council proposed wifi zone in schools and Olsztynek city park. They requested the restoration of the Wi-Fi zone in the center of Olsztynek and thanks to them the internet zone is in the places where youth meets.
Potential for learning or transfer
The Youth Council was established in 2004 on the basis of a resolution of the Council. It operates on the basis of a statute. It brings together 15 councillors, for a 2-year term, representatives of 4 Olsztynek schools.
The aim of the Council is to promote the idea of self-government among young people and to support their activity in the City and Municipality of Olsztynek. The Council's tasks include initiating activities concerning the lives of young people and inspiring and coordinating young people's initiatives.
The Youth Council has organised, co-organised or supported various initiatives.
The Council primarily conducts consultative activities. It takes part in discussing the draft municipal budget, investment projects in the municipality, familiarizing oneself with draft resolutions. It participates in the work of the Olsztynek Citizens' Budget Team.
The Olsztynek Municipality firmly believes that similar Youth Council initiatives can be replicated elsewhere in Europe.