Treaty of Middelburg
I would like to see a world where freedom is truly equal — not limited by gender, race, religion, or where someone is born. Too often, freedom is a privilege, not a right. I want to help create a world where everyone has the freedom to be educated, to feel safe, to be themselves, and to speak without fear.
Team members
- ■ Sydney Trapman
Why do you want to participate?
I want to participate in the Youth Freedom Treaty because I believe that freedom is not just something we inherit — it’s something we must understand, value, and actively protect. As a young person growing up in a time of global uncertainty, I see how easily freedom can be taken for granted, or even lost.
What does freedom mean to you?
To me, freedom means being able to live as your true self — to speak your mind, follow your beliefs, and make your own choices without fear. It's about feeling safe in your community, having access to education and opportunities, and being respected for who you are.
What are the biggest challenges?
One of the biggest challenges is inequality. Not every young person has the same access to education, safety, or opportunities — because of where they live, their background, or economic situation. That means not everyone experiences freedom in the same way.
Do you have a message?
Yes — my message is simple: freedom begins with listening. If we want to build a freer world, we need to start by truly listening to each other — across cultures, across generations, and across differences. Listening creates understanding, and understanding builds bridges instead of walls.
