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Finnish-Swedish Youth Forum on Street Violence and Crime

This full-day event at Hanaholmen brings together young participants from Sweden and Finland to reflect on societal challenges such as street violence, crime, and youth marginalisation. These are issues that continue to affect communities and shape public discourse across both countries. Organised in collaboration with Save the Children Finland and Sweden, and the Nordic Coalition on Youth, Peace and Security, the forum creates a space where youth are not only included in the conversation — they are placed at the centre of it.

The purpose of the Finnish-Swedish Youth Forum on Street Violence and Crime is to foster meaningful dialogue around shared challenges and to promote youth-driven perspectives on violence, crime, marginalization, safety and prevention. The Youth Forum will provide a space for young people to reflect on issues affecting their lives and futures, and to exchange experiences across cultural and national borders.

During the event, the participants will learn more about the phenomena of street violence and crime, including risk factors and initiatives of prevention, and participate in lively discussions and interactive sessions, sharing their own insights. As part of the programme, participants will also draft a statement capturing their reflections and recommendations. This document will be shared with decision-makers in both Sweden and Finland, ensuring that young voices contribute meaningfully to ongoing policy discussions.

We warmly welcome all young people aged 16–29 from diverse backgrounds to take part in the Finnish–Swedish Youth Forum on Street Violence and Crime. Whether you are actively engaged in youth organisations; have personal or work experiences and perspectives on youth marginalization, violence and crime; or have observed the phenomena in your immediate surroundings, such as friend groups, school and community.

If you have the desire to reflect, discuss and advocate for more youth-centered approach to issues around safety, violence, and belonging – we want to hear your voice!

Who can join the event?

• Youth aged 16-29 during the Youth Forum
• Residing in Finland or Sweden long-term
• Have personal experiences with street violence, crime and youth marginalization OR work with these themes
• Feel comfortable using English
• Have the desire to reflect, discuss and advocate for youth perspectives on safety, protection and prevention

Please note that the event deals with sensitive and challenging issues.

Before applying, please consider whether you are comfortable with this.

Participation is free of charge. Travel, accommodation, and meals for the youth participants are covered by the Swedish-Finnish Cultural Foundation.

How to apply

Submit your application by 3 August 2025.

Approximately 25 participants will be selected based on motivation and experience, with attention to the diversity of the group. Whether you have personal experiences through your immediate surroundings, friend groups, school or community; or advocacy related experience through volunteering, projects, studies, work – we encourage you to apply!

Strong motivation and insights presented in the application are prioritized over experience.We encourage youth with no previous experience in these kinds of events to apply.

We will carefully review all submissions and contact all applicants once the selection process is completed.

You will be informed by the end of August via email.