Federal Youth Representation Demands Clear Commitment from Government to Climate Neutrality by 2040
"It's about nothing less than the future of all of us," said Lejla Visnjic, a member of the chair team of the Federal Youth Representation. The climate law should not only work well in theory. "We expect a clear commitment to climate neutrality by 2040 in the climate law." This requires annual emission targets for the federal government, states, and municipalities, as well as independent monitoring and measures. "We must actively fight against continuing as before."
Federal Youth Representation Against Social Media Ban for Youth
After the tragic rampage at a Graz school, where a 21-year-old killed ten people and then himself, additional positions in school psychology were quickly created. "This is an important first, but only a small step," emphasized Ahmed Naief from the chair team. "It is no longer a secret that young people are mentally burdened." Even before the pandemic, four out of ten had struggled with mental health issues, and the pandemic only exacerbated the situation. The BJV demands one school psychologist per 1,000 students.
However, mental support is needed not only in schools. A rapid, nationwide expansion of insurance-funded therapy places is necessary. "Every euro invested can help prevent a mental illness from becoming chronic," said Naief. The HPV vaccination should be permanently included in the free vaccination program. "It is the only vaccination that protects against cancer." If the political will is there, this could be implemented in the first year of the three-party coalition, Naief was convinced.
After the rampage, a discussion about a social media ban for under-15s also flared up. The BJV is not in favor of this: "As long as there is no reliable technical implementation, a formal increase would bring little," said Stark. Moreover, since young people in Austria can vote from the age of 16, they should also be allowed to inform themselves on social media before that.
Federal Youth Representation Demands More Political Education and Round Table
For this, more political education in schools is needed. The Federal Youth Representation advocates for a dedicated subject. More speed is needed towards a more inclusive education system, emphasized Stark. "Children and young people with disabilities do not have the same opportunities as others." The efforts regarding affordable housing and the planned introduction of child basic security are very welcome - however, these should not be postponed due to the budgetary situation.
Young people are far too often accused of being politically uninterested. But that's not true; young people need to be involved in political processes earlier. Therefore, the Federal Youth Representation calls on the government to invite to a round table where youth-relevant institutions from all affected areas can participate.
NEOS Emphasize Prevention
The smallest coalition partner emphasized on the occasion of Youth Day how important it is to take a preventive approach to mental health issues and to ensure sufficient support services. "Mental health determines the future opportunities of our children and the workforce in the country," NEOS health and inclusion spokesperson Fiona Fiedler is quoted in a statement.
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.