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EU Youth Sounding Board in Malawi supports the National Youth Symposium on Debt Transparency

During the second day of the National Youth Symposium on Public Debt, young people presented the Youth Position Paper on Public Debt to the Government, development partners and civil society organizations. Developed by young people from across Malawi, the paper puts forward seven concrete recommendations and calls on the institutions present—including the European Union—to provide a response within the next 30 days.

The EU-Malawi Youth Sounding Board (EU-YSB) contributed to the organization of the event through its representatives

National Youth Symposium on Debt Transparency
© EU YSB-Malawi

Receiving the Youth Position Paper on behalf of the European Union, Chargé d'Affaires, Else Boonstra, highlighted that public debt is not just an issue for experts—it affects every citizen, especially young people who will inherit the consequences of today's decisions. She said she is impressed with the youth's initiative, their wisdom, their energy and determination to meaningfully engage on the question of managing Malawi's debt and public finances.

EU reaffirmed commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and meaningful youth participation through initiatives such as the EU-Malawi Youth Sounding Board (EU-YSB).

Debt Transparency

EU YSB Malawi

On behalf of the Minister of Finance, the Principal Secretary, Mr Patrick Liphava, commended the youth for initiating a timely and courageous conversation on public debt, stating: "You have chosen a bold theme. This is both timely and relevant. You have boldly asked the Government to account, and we are here," while encouraging young people to continue demanding accountability.

Debt Transparency Symposium-Malawi

EU YSB Malawi

One of the key messages that emerged from the two-day symposium was that meaningful advocacy begins with understanding public debt. The discussions informed the development of the Youth Position Paper, which reflects the aspirations and recommendations of young people from across Malawi. 

The EU-Malawi Youth Sounding Board remains committed to working alongside the youth consortium and partners to turn these commitments into action and ensure that youth voices continue to influence national decision-making.