Empowering
Young People
Since 1976
The European Confederation of Youth Clubs (ECYC) is a network of 19 youth clubs and youth work organisations across 17 Council of Europe countries dedicated to open youth work and non-formal education.
At our core, we champion local youth clubs and grassroots youth work, believing that every young person deserves access to supportive, inclusive spaces in their community
Our vision
We envision a Europe where young people are empowered through open youth work and non-formal learning to become active citizens, shaping democratic and inclusive societies
What we do
ECYC members deliver Open Youth Work—a dynamic, participatory approach that puts young people at the centre. Through engaging, non-formal education methods, we help youth build confidence, gain critical life skills, and make informed choices about their futures
What is Open Youth Work?
Open Youth Work is the shared foundation that connects all ECYC member organisations. At its core, it’s about creating voluntary, inclusive, and empowering spaces for young people to grow, learn, and participate in society
Through youth clubs, centres, street outreach, and community projects, Open Youth Work gives young people access to meaningful experiences that help them meet their personal development goals and become active citizens in democratic societies.
Opportunities Through Open Youth Work
Open Youth Work offers young people opportunities that are:
Helping youth gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to understand their rights and responsibilities—and act on them as individuals and community members at local, national, and international levels
It also promotes equality of opportunity by challenging discrimination in all its forms, including racism, sexism, ableism, and more—while celebrating the diversity and strength within communities
Educative
Young people engage on a voluntary basis, working in partnership with youth workers. Their voices are heard, and they have a say in decisions that affect their lives and the world around them
Participative
Supporting youth to understand and act on personal, social, and political issues—encouraging them to lead change in their communities and beyond
Empowering
OUR NETWORK
ECYC brings together 20 member organisations across 18 Council of Europe countries, reaching over 2 million young people every year
What our members have in common:
- They support and collaborate with youth clubs, promote Open Youth Work, and deliver non-formal education for young people
- They operate as national or regional organisations in the youth sector
- They are independent of political or religious affiliations