Change felt closer as young Europeans stepped into real policy spaces. Through the DEAR project Climate of Change, learners became advocates – building skills in debate, leadership, and public engagement, then taking demands to those who shape decisions.

Young participants reported greater knowledge, skills, and confidence to articulate arguments and advocate, helping close the gap between youth perspectives and global decision-making.

After involving over 10 000 students in debate schemes across Europe, 117 students reached the European Debate Finals, testing arguments on climate, migration, and social justice. Their journey culminated in direct exchanges with Members of the European Parliament, where they posed questions on climate justice and sustainable policies.

From these debates, 26 Young Ambassadors were selected for a field visit to Kenya, to collect stories connecting their own lifestyles with climate impact in the Global South. Youth delegations also carried their message onto the global stage – speaking at an official COP27 side event and joining two visits to the UN Human Rights Council.