Opening the event, high-level OSCE Chairmanship representative, Head of the OSCE Task Force Viacheslav Yatsiuk noted that the current OSCE Chair, Ukraine, attaches great importance to raising awareness of OSCE activities and promoting principles of tolerance and non-discrimination among young people. “We strongly believe that youth participation contributes to the OSCE in achieving Organization goals and principles”, he said.

“Our difference is our wealth, our unity is our strength” was the motto of the Summit and it was attended by more than 500 young participants from 43 OSCE participating States, and eight Partners for Co-operation. Youth had a unique opportunity to learn about OSCE activities, share their thoughts on security issues, economy and environmental protection as well as information activities. The event contributed to promoting multinational communication in developing tolerance, national self-awareness, and leadership capacity.

“Young participants of the Summit helped to create a bright, festive atmosphere at this multicultural event where peace, friendship, mutual respect and understanding led to new visions of how to make our world a better place,” said Valentyna Dovzhenko, Head of the All-Ukrainian Charitable Foundation of Hope and Good.

Participants of the presentation expressed their hopes that future OSCE Chairmanships will continue such a successful tradition of international youth events.