How do we prepare for something we do not know is coming? And which instruments help us tackle not only existing challenges but also emerging ones? These questions led to the Future PolicyShapers Programme, held at the International Institute for Peace in Vienna over eight days between November 2021 and February 2022.
28 young leaders based in Vienna worked together with dedication and courage towards social change, learning public speaking, negotiation, research and policy development. These skills apply in any field and help young people communicate better, reach their group's goals and shape new policies.
Learning to negotiate
The training started with two intense sessions in which participants got to know each other and learned about negotiation: its processes, main characteristics and the different types of negotiators. Simulation games put the theory into practice. Participants were also introduced to Model United Nations simulations and to the work of the Council of Europe and the European Youth Foundation. Team spirit grew faster than expected.
A first resolution on climate
Next came a preparatory conference on joint EU action against climate change and for sustainability. Each participant submitted a position paper representing their allocated country, and together they handed in a draft resolution. Because of COVID-19 measures, this part had to move online, and it still went better than expected.
The Democratic Institutions Model Conference
Finally meeting in person again, participants took part in a three-day conference on "The Right to Privacy and Cybersecurity in the Digital Age and in Times of Crises", simulating the European Union Committee on Citizens' Rights. Negotiations were heated but constructive. Participants' different backgrounds, cultures and studies made the debates truly interdisciplinary, and through structured dialogue they learned how to shape viable, innovative policies. A second resolution was agreed and adopted by vote.
The programme closed with an open discussion with two political guests, women with practical experience of the topics. Participants then teamed up on four follow-up initiatives on cybersecurity and the right to privacy, which led to two awareness videos, a poster and a flyer.
"This training was a great possibility to work with a group of fascinating people in a safe environment that allowed for mistakes and personal growth, on topics of great relevance to everyone's lives!"Chris Breitenfeld
