The Steering Committee for Human Rights in the fields of Biomedicine and Health (CDBIO) took important measures at its 5th plenary meeting (11-12 June 2024) to ensure the integration of a youth perspective in its work. The Committee decided to designate Mark Bale (UK) as Rapporteur for the integration of a youth perspective, it also invited the Advisory Council on Youth (CCJ) to assist the CDBIO in the development of its strategic action plan 2026‑2030. The CDBIO preparatory group on the integration of a youth perspective in the work of the CDBIO will conduct a survey of national practices and experiences in engaging youth on ethical and bioethical topics. The preparatory group was established following the positive outcomes of the pilot youth forum on Bioethics.

Jessý Jónsdóttir, CCJ member, presented the work of the Joint Council on Youth (CMJ) on the youth perspective and welcomed the outcomes of this meeting, which stem from the work the CDBIO preparatory group. Jessý Jónsdóttir stressed that young people are not merely the beneficiaries of future bioethical policies, they are key stakeholders whose perspectives can lead to more innovative, equitable and sustainable solutions. To do this meaningfully, Jessý highlighted the need to have a regular seat at CDBIO’s meetings to fully grasp the issues at stake. These issues should be identified and prioritised so as to engage appropriately with young people.   

The CDBIO will be invited to contribute to the development of the Council of Europe reference framework on the integration of a youth perspective according to its experience and Jessý Jónsdóttir will take part in the meeting of the CDBIO’s group entrusted with preparing their new strategic plan (September 2024, Paris).