Treaty of Middelburg
If I could change one thing about freedom in the world, it would be ensuring that everyone, not just a privileged few, has the same access to it. True freedom means more than just having rights on paper; it means being able to live without fear, express yourself without repression, and pursue opportunities regardless of background, religion, or beliefs. One of the biggest obstacles to freedom today is division, whether through political polarization, religious tensions, or social inequality. I believe we need more open dialogue, more understanding, and more willingness to listen to different perspectives. Freedom should unite, not divide. If we focus on respect, education, and cooperation, we can create a world where freedom is not just a privilege but a shared reality for all.
Team members
- ■ Hedi Verhaag
Why do you want to participate?
Freedom feels like something obvious, until you realize it isn’t. At the Youth Freedom Conference, I want to reflect on 80 years of liberation, learn from the past, and think about the future. How can we ensure that freedom continues for generations to come? I also look forward to hearing inspiring stories, engaging in meaningful conversations, and gaining new insights in such a special place as Zeeland.
What does freedom mean to you?
Freedom is more than just a word, it’s the ability to be yourself, to speak your mind, and to make your own choices without fear. It means having opportunities, feeling safe, and respecting others’ rights to the same. Freedom isn’t just about what we have today; it’s something we must protect and pass on to future generations. To me, freedom is both a privilege and a responsibility.
What are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges to freedom for young people today is the balance between security and personal rights. In a world of increasing digital surveillance and misinformation, it’s becoming harder to freely express opinions without fear of judgment or repercussions. Social media, while connecting us, also fuels division by amplifying extreme viewpoints and creating pressure to conform. Another growing challenge is the increasing tension between different beliefs and worldviews. Polarization is making it harder to have open, respectful conversations, as people are more often pushed into opposing camps. Instead of dialogue, we see more misunderstanding and conflict, which threatens the freedom to express one’s identity, religion, or values. True freedom means not only having rights but also ensuring that others can enjoy theirs, despite differences. If we want to protect and strengthen freedom, we need to focus on understanding, respect, and finding common ground in a divided world.
Do you have a message?
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