The Youth Regional Network (YRN) General Assembly took place in Brussels on 3-4 April 2025, bringing together young leaders and activists from across Europe for two days of cultural exchange, capacity building, and democratic participation.
The event kicked off on Thursday with a flavorful cultural potluck, where participants shared traditional dishes from their regions, setting the tone for an event focused on unity in diversity.
The official opening was led by Linda Helén Haukland, AER Vice President for Employment, Education and Skills, who emphasized the crucial role of youth in shaping the future of regions across Europe.
This was followed by an interactive workshop titled “Advocacy in Action”, organised by Mathilde Colarte, Chair of the Thematic Committee on Youth Participation & Governance, which equipped attendees with practical tools to amplify youth voices in policymaking.
The YRN General Assembly was then formally opened by AER Secretary General Vania Freitas. In her address, she underlined the importance of youth perspectives within the broader network, stating: “We can represent your interests, but we cannot represent you.” Her message was a call to action for YRN members to take full ownership of their roles in shaping AER’s work.
The outgoing Presidium shared an activity report highlighting a year full of impactful events and initiatives, which was officially approved by the assembly. A special moment of recognition came with the presentation of the “Most Active YRN Member” Award to Maylinda Bajrami, former Chair of the Thematic Committee on Gender Equality & Women Empowerment, now serving as Albania’s Youth Delegate to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe.
The assembly also marked a heartfelt farewell to the former Presidium, who were warmly applauded for their dedication and achievements. Following speeches and a Q&A session with all candidates, participants cast their votes in the Presidium election. The newly elected YRN Presidium is:
- President: Norbert Nagy (Sălaj, Romania)
- 1st Vice-President: Jack McLaughlin (Donegal, Ireland)
- 2nd Vice-President: Odin Rønning (Nordland, Norway)
- Chair, TC on Youth Participation & Governance: Peter Mc Nelis (Donegal, Ireland)
- Chair, TC on Mental Health & Wellbeing: Irgesa Sadiku (Dibra, Albania)
- Chair, TC on Gender Equality & Women Empowerment: Griselda Rexhmati (Tirana, Albania)
- Chair, TC on Green & Sustainable Europe: Asher Faruk Dvoinikov (Catalonia, Spain)
The following day, under bright Belgian skies, those who stayed in Brussels enjoyed a fun and engaging treasure hunt through the city – turning Brussels itself into a canvas for informal learning and shared experiences.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who participated and contributed to making this General Assembly such a memorable success.
For the regions interested in hosting the 2026 YRN General Assembly or organizing a capacity-building event for the YRN members, please contact Jeanne Demonque, AER Programmes Coordinator, at j.demonque@aer.eu.
