Proposed ‘Future Wales Charter’ places youth interests at core of governance

Plaid Cymru’s Acting Leader, Llyr Gruffydd MS, has unveiled a proposal for a ‘Future Wales Charter,’ calling for the voices and concerns of young people to be elevated in policymaking processes.

Mr Gruffydd seeks to rally three of Wales’s Commissioners – Children, Welsh Language and Future Generations – to collaborate with the nation’s youth in creating this transformative charter.

The charter would serve as a strategic guide for the Welsh Government, placing the interests and ambitions of young people at its core.

He said the objectives within the charter should transition from mere aspirations into tangible, achievable realities.

Addressing the  Urdd National Eisteddfod in Llandovery, Mr Gruffydd highlighted recent research that underscores the pressing issues confronting the youth today, including climate change, the scarcity of Welsh-speaking teachers, and the detrimental impact of social media on mental health.

Mr Gruffydd warned these issues pose severe risks to children and young people’s wellbeing and rights.

The Acting Leader’s call comes at a time when, according to YouGov polling data, one in three young people are grappling with climate anxiety, and one in six have a diagnosable mental health condition.

The the North Wales MS emphasised, “Children and young people will live longest with the actions we take today. It is vital that their interests and ambitions are at the core of the government of the day’s decision-making.”

He elaborated on the prospective components of the charter, which include the provision of adequate mental health care for all, legislating on protecting biodiversity, and ensuring a right to Welsh-medium education from cradle to college.

Mr Gruffydd called for the charter’s objectives to be developed and approved by young people, in consultation with the Welsh Youth Parliament and other forums.

He proposed that the three Commissioners steer this process to ensure the charter stands as a testament to the Welsh Government’s commitment to its youth.

The ‘Future Wales Charter’ marks a significant shift in perspective, pushing for policies and laws that consider the long-term impact on the nation’s youth.

Mr Gruffydd’s rallying cry for a youth-centric future resonates with his conviction that “Children and young people will live longest with the actions we take today”.