As shadow rapporteur on the Youth Guarantee: implementing instead of making mere promises.

Combating youth unemployment remains one of the key social policy challenges in Europe. Despite the progress made since the reform of the Youth Guarantee in 2020, it is clear that we are still not doing enough to sustainably integrate young people into employment, education, or training.

As shadow rapporteur for the EPP Group, I am therefore committed to placing a stronger focus on actual implementation. The problem is not merely a lack of funding, but above all the quality of the measures offered, the targeted outreach to particularly vulnerable young people, and the insufficient follow-up of these initiatives.

The Youth Guarantee must not be viewed in isolation. Its success depends largely on effective framework conditions: strong family policies, a high-performing education system, affordable housing, and reliable childcare. Anyone who believes that a single instrument can solve structural problems is overlooking the bigger picture.

Especially in times of limited public resources, it is crucial to use existing resources efficiently and to make better use of synergies. Investments in early childhood education and the targeted support of young parents are not only socially necessary, but also economically sound.

Transparency is equally essential. Public funds must reach those who truly need them. This requires clear monitoring mechanisms and better traceability of the measures implemented.

For me, one thing is clear: the Youth Guarantee is a central pillar of European social policy. What matters now is ensuring its effective implementation.

For real opportunities for young people across Europe.

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