The Council of Europe Youth Department conducted a youth policy advisory mission to Portugal from 2 to 5 September 2024 within the framework of the European Steering Group for Youth (CDEJ) bilateral assistance measures.

The mission aimed to enhance youth work, focusing on revising occupational standards, exploring continuous professional development opportunities, and advancing youth work in higher education. The mission comprised a diverse team of representatives from the Advisory Council on Youth (CCJ), the European Steering Committee for Youth (CDEJ), the research community and the Council of Europe Youth Policy Division. The expert team was engaged in exchanges with key stakeholders including the Office of the Minister of Youth and Modernisation, the Portuguese Institute for Youth and Sports on national, as well as on regional level, the Portuguese National Youth Council, representatives of Portuguese municipalities, the Portuguese Employment and Vocational Training Centre, as well as representatives of different youth associations and youth work organisations.

The report of the Council of Europe expert team will feed into a new national youth work strategy in Portugal, ensuring alignment with Council of Europe policies.

The Council of Europe expresses its gratitude to the Portuguese authorities for entrusting this important mission to it, as well as for hosting it and acknowledges the excellent cooperation throughout. Furthermore, the Council of Europe extends its gratitude to Portugal for its continuous support of the Youth Department and its activities.