The international scientific conference “Youth Civic Participation: Decorative or Authentic? Formal or Meaningful?” will take place at the Latvian Academy of Culture (LAC) on 5 November 2025. Its aim is to foster both academic and practical discussion on the experiences and opportunities of youth civic participation in the context of threats to democracy, technological innovation, and geopolitical crises, with particular attention to new, unconventional, and “alternative” forms of engagement. The conference seeks to create a diverse and inclusive dialogue among researchers, youth policy-makers, youth workers, NGOs, educators, mentors of youth participation practices, and other stakeholders. A central role will also be given to the voices of young people - their experiences, perspectives, and ideas on how youth can act as a driving force for change. The conference is part of the annual international conference series “Culture Crossroads XIX.”
