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1. Forthcoming policy developments

2. Ongoing debates

Forthcoming policy developments

The major forthcoming policy development expected in the field of youth work is the finalisation of the occupational standards of youth workers. 

Moreover, during the preparation of the National Youth Strategy 2030, a series of consultations and discussions took place in 2024 which pointed out that youth work recognition is one of the priorities that should be included in the Strategy. 

Additionally, the Youth Board of Cyprus has commissioned a research institution to carry out a study on youth work, the results of which are expected in 2025. The general objectives of this research are the: 

• assessment of the current situation of working with/for youth in Cyprus,
• recording of the views and needs of youth workers,
• exploration of the views of employers and policy makers; and
• mapping of the jobs where youth workers could be employed. 

The results shall facilitate the discussions for the preparation of a holistic road map for the qualitative development of youth work in Cyprus, in connection also with the implementation of the European Youth Work Agenda on the national level.

Ongoing debates

Several consultations and discussions, between the main state and non-governmental stakeholders, are taking place for developing a specific road map which aims at:

• achieving common ground for the definition of youth work and youth work organisations;
• establishing the occupational standards of the youth worker and distinguish it from other professions;
• developing educational paths;
• providing further support and
• recognising the value of youth work in society.