Representatives from Dublin’s four Comhairlí na nÓg gathered at Dublin City Council Chambers on 15 September for a special Youth and Democracy Summit, bringing young people together to share their experiences, showcase their achievements and explore the role of youth participation in shaping a stronger, more inclusive democracy.The summit formed part of the Lord Mayor of Dublin’s initiative on democracy and youth, which aims to encourage civic engagement and ensure young people’s voices are heard in decision-making at local, national and European levels. It also coincided with Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union and celebrated Dublin’s twinning with Greece, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and shared democratic values.

Showcasing youth-led initiatives

Each Comhairle na nÓg presented projects addressing issues affecting young people in their communities:

  • Dublin City Comhairle na nÓg: Tackling child poverty through proposals for school breakfast clubs and improved access to healthy, nutritious food.
  • Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Comhairle na nÓg: Promoting safe, dedicated outdoor spaces where young people can meet, socialise and participate in youth-led activities.
  • Fingal Comhairle na nÓg: Addressing antisocial behaviour by engaging with young people, sharing their concerns with decision-makers and advocating for change.
  • South Dublin Comhairle na nÓg: Raising awareness of drug use among young people, particularly nitrous oxide, through engagement with young people, medical professionals and other stakeholders.

These projects demonstrated how young people are already taking action on issues connected to the summit’s five pillars, from security and inclusion to innovation and democratic participation. They also highlighted the importance of giving young people meaningful opportunities to identify challenges, develop solutions and engage directly with decision-makers.

Strengthening youth participation

Through discussions, presentations and workshops, participants exchanged ideas and explored ways to increase youth involvement in public life. The summit also provided an opportunity to engage with diplomatic and European representatives and discuss shared challenges and opportunities for young people in Ireland and Greece.
Speakers emphasised that young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow, but active citizens today whose perspectives are essential to building resilient democratic institutions.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from all four Dublin Comhairlí na nÓg to work collaboratively, strengthen youth participation across the capital and promote democratic engagement, inclusion and active citizenship.
The event celebrated the positive impact of youth-led action and reaffirmed the important role young people play in shaping the future of Dublin, Ireland and Europe.