Treaty of Middelburg
I strongly believe that a starting point in addressing freedom is working on systemic inequalities, acknowledging them rather than focusing on concepts like meritocracy. Equal access should not be seen as utopian but as a practical goal. I would advocate for a world where freedom is a two-way street: it should not only mean asserting the basic conditions of equality and human rights but also the responsibility to respect others' freedoms. I would work to foster a culture of mutual respect and empathy, where people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs can engage in open, respectful dialogue, leading to understanding and cooperation.
Team members
- ■ Antonina De Stefano
Why do you want to participate?
I would be very excited to participate because I truly believe in the power of dialogue and exchange within civil society. It is important to create a space where young people have the opportunity to come together and discuss the world we currently live in, as well as the world we want to build for ourselves and future generations. These conversations are crucial for fostering understanding, collaboration, and ultimately for building a more peaceful and united future for all.
What does freedom mean to you?
From my perspective, freedom can only be defined through the absence of freedom, as its presence often obscures the very possibility of imagining a life without the privileges associated with it. This requires deep reflection on how freedom is intrinsically linked to fundamental rights. Without a place to express oneself without prejudice and constraints, one is unable to exercise their freedom. Power struggles are undermining the freedom of every individual. We live in a society where more and more voices are being silenced. Therefore, now more than ever, we must shout for the freedom of all, especially for those whose freedom has already been taken away.
What are the biggest challenges?
Freedom for young people today comes with a range of complex and interconnected challenges, with inequality—both social and economic—standing at the forefront. Issues like access to education, rising costs of living, student debt, and lack of affordable healthcare create significant barriers to achieving personal independence and freedom of choice. In many parts of the world, young people also face political oppression or social structures that limit their ability to speak freely or engage in activism. Additionally, societal pressures, economic instability, and global uncertainty further restrict their freedom to live fully. These challenges often lead to anxiety, depression, and stress, which are frequently underestimated in terms of their impact on young people's well-being and their ability to lead fulfilling lives.
Do you have a message?
I hope to have the opportunity to engage with many young people from all over the world. In an era of hyper-connectivity, I would love to have a real connection with ideas, aspirations, and projects from diverse backgrounds. Sharing perspectives and learning from others' experiences is something I deeply value, and I believe it is essential for fostering global understanding and collaboration. This exchange of ideas would not only enrich my own growth but also contribute to building a more united and empathetic future.
