Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs 2024 International Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Program For Young People

In 2020, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (NL MFA) unveiled the Youth at Heart Strategy, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at incorporating youth perspectives into global policymaking, with a keen focus on critical areas such as education and youth employment. To further this mission, the establishment of the International Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) marked a significant step in ensuring that the voices of young people from key regions, including the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Middle East, and North Africa, are heard and integrated into the NL MFA’s policy frameworks.

The YAC embarked on its second tenure from May 2023 to March 2024, welcoming back 5 members from its initial phase and introducing 5 new faces. This blend of continuity and fresh perspectives has enriched the committee, enabling it to draw from past experiences while embracing new insights. This period has been instrumental in bolstering the committee’s resilience and effectiveness in advocating for youth-centric policies.

The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Youth Advisory Committee Program offers an array of benefits, including a monthly stipend of €158 for its members, alongside comprehensive coverage of travel expenses to the Netherlands, encompassing visas, flights, and accommodation. Members engage in pivotal activities, from attending bi-annual meetings in the Netherlands to closely collaborating with NL MFA policy officers on strategies that prioritize youth, education, and employment. They are also instrumental in engaging with stakeholders, conducting policy research, and advocating for meaningful youth participation in policy development.

To be eligible for this transformative opportunity, candidates must be aged between 18 and 29 as of March 27, 2024, possess at least a B1 level of English proficiency, and demonstrate a strong ability to communicate and collaborate across cultural divides. Applicants are expected to commit an average of 10 hours weekly to the YAC’s activities, showcasing a genuine commitment to fostering community engagement and advocating for youth inclusion in policy dialogue.

The selection process for the YAC is thorough and competitive, starting with a review of CVs and motivation questions, followed by a group selection phase, and concluding with individual interviews for shortlisted candidates. The application window closes on April 10, 2024. Interested candidates can apply through the Dutch National Youth Council (NJR) by visiting nationalejeugdraad.typeform.com. This is an unparalleled opportunity for young leaders passionate about making a difference in international policy to directly contribute their insights and experiences.