Youth campaigners gather from across Europe

In June, I had the chance to represent YFoES at the Young Friends of the Earth Europe (YFoEE) network gathering in North Macedonia, a great opportunity for campaigners across europe aged 18-30 to meet and learn new skills.  

The event took place at a mountain ski resort, but since it was summer, the landscape was green trees and rolling hills, similar to parts of the Highlands where I come from, which was comforting when I was in a country I had never visited before. The photo below shows our walk to the mountain, offering some truly breathtaking views. 

Before arriving in North Macedonia, we attended online training sessions to ensure everyone was prepared to explore the topics more thoroughly. We discussed what YFoEE is and how it connects all member groups, as well as the policy influence we can have within the EU or, in Scotland’s case, as an individual member, while remaining part of the YFoEE campaigns.  

Facing similar environmental challenges across Europe

It became clear that many of our countries face similar challenges that we could address more effectively through collaboration. Personally, I found this very helpful, as it increased my confidence and brought my knowledge up to speed for active participation. 

Back to North Macedonia! It was a very busy weekend. On day 1, I learned about YFoEE’s various working groups and their recent activities. I also explored the connection between intersectionality and climate justice, a focus of our Scottish group lately. In the afternoon, we hiked up the mountain, which helped strengthen our bonds with each other. 

On Day 2, we reviewed key points from the online training on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). This EU regulation requires large companies operating within the EU to implement processes to identify negative human rights and environmental impacts throughout their supply chains.  

I found it interesting that this regulation impacts many large UK companies working in the EU. However, we also discussed that, starting in December 2025, the European Parliament introduced new laws that weaken the CSDDD’s accountability, meaning these companies won’t face the same required changes as before.  

Learning new spokesperson skills

Over the weekend, we enjoyed discussing how each country’s campaigns were nationally focused, and it was helpful to learn about topics I wasn’t familiar with. Another session today was a spokesperson training, which I found particularly useful since I tend to talk with my hands, and learning that standing with my hands behind my back during interviews is seen as professional was a great tip.  

We also had an intercultural evening, where each country presented something to the group. In true Scottish style, I taught some ceilidh dancing. The group also shared snacks from different countries, making for a delightful evening full of laughter and joy.  

And before I knew it, the YFoEE network weekend ended, and I was traveling back to Scotland. It was an enriching experience, and I loved being able to make friends from across Europe, from all different backgrounds. The numerous conversations I had broadened my understanding of various topics, leading me to view campaigning in a new light. I hope to share what I learned with others in YFoES, fostering more meaningful discussions and collaboratively generating fresh ideas to advance our campaigns effectively.  

by Lily from Young Friends of the Earth Scotland