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A New Way of Thinking: Policy That Serves the Future

“To ensure that the interests of both present and future generations are respected. We must speak for all generations.” That’s the driving goal behind a new initiative led by European Commissioner Glenn Micallef, responsible for intergenerational justice, youth, culture and sport. The EU is laying the foundation for a strategy that goes far beyond short-term fixes—it’s about designing a Europe that works across time, for everyone.

This strategy isn’t being written behind closed doors. Instead, it’s built on public consultations, research, and a belief that everyone—regardless of age—should have a voice in shaping the future, even if they’re not born yet.

Youth Voices, Art, and Empathy: A Unique Approach

This year, the EU Policy Lab launched a participatory “scoping phase” to explore what intergenerational justice should look like. Hundreds of people—from teenagers to grandparents—shared their ideas in workshops, exhibitions, and online platforms.

These weren’t typical policy meetings. Participants didn’t just analyze data—they meditated, told personal stories, and took on the perspectives of people from different generations. This empathy-driven approach helped create deeper understanding across age groups.

By gathering such diverse input, the Commission hopes to create a strategy that’s not top-down, but co-designed by the people it will impact.

Three big shifts: how the EU could transform for future generations

From the consultations and research, three key areas emerged as essential for building a future-proof Europe:

1. Rethinking institutions and democratic participation

Today’s political systems often focus on the next election, not the next generation. The EU aims to embed long-term thinking into its legal and decision-making processes, ensuring future generations have a seat at the table—even if they can’t vote yet. If successful, Europe could set a global example for governance that looks beyond the present.

2. Solidarity that goes both ways

From climate change to inequality, the biggest challenges of our time affect age groups differently. The strategy promotes solidarity between generations, recognizing that policies must reflect how age, economic status, and social background intersect. This means designing smarter support systems that respond to real needs—whether you’re 17 or 77.

3. Empowering all ages

Intergenerational justice isn’t only about youth. It’s about ensuring people of all ages can help build a fairer society. A “life-cycle” approach is central: what we do today must not harm the wellbeing of people tomorrow, especially the most vulnerable.

Lessons from the scoping phase: inclusion, action, and going global

The early phase of this initiative revealed some crucial lessons:

  • Inclusion matters: For a future-oriented strategy to work, it must amplify voices that are often ignored—young people, children, the elderly, migrants, and minorities.
  • Concrete ideas count: This isn’t about vague promises. The EU is looking at real experiences, real needs, and building on existing local and regional solutions.
  • Think local, act global: Intergenerational justice doesn’t stop at EU borders. Aligning with UN agendas and global initiatives can make Europe a leader in shaping a more just world.

What’s Next? It’s Time to Dream Together

The next phase is all about imagination. The Commission is inviting everyone—yes, you too—to share your vision of a fairer Europe. No idea is too small or too bold.

You can submit your thoughts on the Citizen Engagement Platform, follow the initiative on Instagram, or sign up for updates via the EU Policy Lab newsletter. This is your chance to help create policies that don’t just react to crises, but prevent them—by planning for those who haven’t yet been born.

Why This Matters—Especially for Young Europeans

We often hear that young people are the future. But this initiative takes it one step further: young people are being asked to help design the future, now.

By thinking across generations, the EU isn’t just writing new policies—it’s changing how policymaking works. And that matters because today’s decisions will shape the world you inherit tomorrow.

Let’s make sure it’s one worth inheriting.

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