Youth and Society. Topic for Conversation #10 / #23

Youth and society

1. What national and international youth organisations do you know?

Each age group in society has its own role and this is important in many different ways. Young people are often considered to represent the future as they bring new ideas and energy to add to the pool of knowledge that currently exists. They can bring enthusiasm and vitality which can lead to new discoveries and developments that can benefit society or even the world at large. Although not the only drivers of social change, young people are seen to be one the key drivers engendering change.

Nowadays young people take an active part in social life; participating in various social activities, being involved in volunteering. They have a brilliant opportunity not to stay aside, to be indifferent to what is happening around. They take part in meetings, discussions, peaceful demonstrations. Young people usually belong to youth movements through membership in different youth organizations. There they have the right to express their views, discuss the most vital problems that worry young people. These activities help young people to become more organized and better disciplined, to become really involved in a lot of things. They meet new people, make new friends and find a shoulder to cry on. Helping other people in different charity projects they learn to appreciate kindness and warm heartedness; in social and political projects they have a chance to express their opinions and ideas. 

Different religious youth groups aim at helping elderly people or working in hospitals. They even help former prisoners to start a new life. Religious organizations also involve young people into music band drama festivals.

Other youth organizations can be divided into non-political organizations and youth organizations connected with political parties. They have different principles.

The largest non-political organization is The Scout Movement. The membership is voluntary, they have a special badge, a training programme and the motto “Be Prepared”. They develop such skills as honesty, obedience, patriotism, kindness. The Belarusian Pioneer Movement is a part of the scout movement.

One of the organizations connected with political parties is the Youth Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (YCND) which cooperates with the National Union of Students. They organise meetings, demonstrations and festivals.

The most important youth organization in Belarus is the Belarusian Republican Youth Union or the BRSM. Its goals are to promote patriotism, moral values and they organise such activities as camping, sporting events, concerts, volunteer work, charity and different demonstrations to support the present power in our country. The BRSM was founded in 2002 and it has its own emblem and flag.

Personally I consider that youth organizations do useful work to help young people to take an active part in social and political life of the country.

2. Have you ever taken part in any meaningful international events?

3. What questions will you ask about a new project organised by the BRSM?

4. Some young people want to become volunteers but don't know what to start with. What will you recommend them to do?

5. If you have a chance to start a campaign, what will you campaign for?