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1. Legal/policy framework for the functioning and development of youth organisations

2. Public financial support

3. Initiatives to increase the diversity of participants

Legal/policy framework for the functioning and development of youth organisations

In Greece, youth organisations are generally governed under the national legal framework for non-governmental and non-profit entities, rather than through a dedicated top-level policy exclusively for youth organisations. Many such organisations operate as non-profit NGOs under Greek civil law and can apply for public funding through competitive calls and registers. The Ministry of Education maintains an official register of bodies and organisations active in youth affairs, which includes NGOs, local initiatives and other youth-related actors; this register provides administrative transparency and facilitates access to funding opportunities.

Public financial support

Youth organisations in Greece receive funding primarily through project-based calls issued by public authorities, including the General Secretariat for Youth and other ministries. Funded activities typically cover youth engagement, civic participation, education, social inclusion and cultural programmes. 

In addition to national funding, youth organisations access European-level funding, notably through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), which offers project-based support for volunteering, solidarity actions and youth engagement across national and international contexts. 

Following the European Year of Youth 2022, several national initiatives continue to provide youth organisations with opportunities for participation and funding. The National Youth Capital 2026 programme, launched by the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family Affairs, invites municipalities to implement youth engagement projects, fostering participation in local governance and community activities.

Another relevant initiative is U‑Talent, launched in October 2025 by the Public Employment Service (DYPA) in collaboration with UNICEF Greece. This programme supports young people aged 15–24 in skills development, employability and civic engagement.

Initiatives to increase the diversity of participants

While there is no single nationwide programme solely dedicated to increasing diversity within youth organisations, inclusiveness criteria are embedded within national and EU funding calls. These criteria encourage the participation of under-represented groups, such as young people with fewer opportunities, those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and young people from remote areas. Civil society actors and youth work associations also provide training, networking and capacity-building initiatives to promote wider engagement across diverse youth populations.