The official ceremony at the EJBM brought together young people, representatives of the Council of Europe, the German Foreign Office, the state of Saxony-Anhalt, the City of Magdeburg, and civil society organisations from across Germany.

Mayor of Magdeburg Simone Borris welcomed guests on behalf of the city: “Being awarded the Council of Europe’s Quality Label is a wonderful recognition of the outstanding work done by the European Youth Education Centre Magdeburg and a seal of quality for the Europe-wide network. The commitment to solidarity, community and civic courage is being acknowledged in an exemplary way through this official confirmation. The Quality Label also shows that Magdeburg can present itself as a European educational hub and as a committed city. I hope even more young people will be inspired to get involved in new projects.”

Holger Paech, Saxony-Anhalt’s Commissioner for Children and Youth emphasised the social importance of the centre’s work: "Youth participation is part of the EJBM’s DNA. When young people learn early on that their voice matters, they’re more likely to feel part of society – and to stand up for others, too."

The significance of international co-operation for Saxony-Anhalt was also underlined by Dr Henrike Franz, Head of International Cooperation at the State Chancellery. She passed on congratulations on behalf of Rainer Robra, Minister for European and Federal Affairs who said: "This outstanding award is well-deserved recognition for the important work the EJBM does to promote European values throughout Saxony-Anhalt."

Tobias Flessenkemper, Head of the Youth Department at the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, presented the label in person and delivered congratulations on behalf of the 46-member-strong organisation. He praised the EJBM as "a strong new member of the Quality Label network and a unique partner of young people that demonstrates outstanding commitment to human rights, democratic youth participation and international youth co-operation.”

Christian Scharf, Director of the EJBM, said: "With the EJBM joining this network, not only is its educational work being honoured – it also reinforces the value of European youth work in Magdeburg and Saxony-Anhalt and highlights the vital role of active youth participation in building democratic societies."

Dr Christina Langhans, EJBM’s Head of Educational Programmes, highlighted the meaning of the Label for the region: "Joining the Council of Europe’s network opens up new opportunities – especially when it comes to international cooperation and enhancing the quality of our programmes for young people and youth professionals locally."

 Background

The European Youth Education Centre (EJBM) is a facility for international youth work and non-formal education based in Saxony-Anhalt. It offers a wide range of programmes and exchanges for young people and professionals, with a focus on democracy, European identity and intercultural learning.

The Council of Europe is a pan-European organisation dedicated to promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Unlike the European Union, it comprises 46 member states and does not legislate, but rather serves as a platform for co-operation in these core areas.

The Quality Label for Youth Centres was launched in 2008 to connect youth centres in member states with European youth policy and support their professional development. Centres awarded the label offer participatory learning spaces and serve as hubs for non-formal education, youth participation and international exchange.

photos: Hannes MARQUARDT