The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a group of around 10 young people from the Middle East, Africa and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Together they advise the ministry of Foreign Affairs on subjects like education, work and the ways in which young people can be involved on the international stage. This intercultural cooperation offers new ideas, experiences and insights that can enrich the policy processes of the ministry.
The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (NL MFA) launched the Youth at Heart Strategy in 2020, with a focus on empowering youth in international policymaking, especially in areas like education and youth employment.
As part of this initiative, the International Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) was established to ensure that NL MFA policies align with the realities and needs of young people in focus regions such as the Sahel, Horn of Africa, Middle East, and North Africa.
Requirements
Age Requirement: be between 18 and 29 years of age as of March 27, 2024.
Language proficiency: Proficiency in English (B1 level or above) to effectively and confidently communicate thoughts and ideas, with an emphasis on clarity rather than perfection of the language.
Intercultural Competence: Ability to engage in (online) intercultural communication, facilitating effective interaction and collaboration with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Technical Requirements: Access to a stable internet connection, with the capability to attend online meetings with camera and microphone enabled.
Flexibility and availability: Be flexible and available to dedicate an average of 10 hours per week to YAC-related activities, including attendance at online meetings and events. This commitment excludes the time spent during meet-up weeks in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Nationality and Residence: Hold nationality in one of the countries within the focus regions: Benin, Burundi, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Uganda, Palestinian Territories, Senegal, Chad, The Kingdom of the Nederlands, Tunisia, South Africa, South Sudan, Yemen. Membership is already established for individuals from Kenya, Tanzania, Iraq, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria (current members).
Applications from these countries will not be accepted for Cohort 3.
Community Engagement: Demonstrate active involvement in your local community and possess a substantial network of diverse young people. This engagement reflects a genuine interest in social issues and a commitment to fostering positive change.
Interest and Experience: Demonstrated interest in global issues, foreign policy, and meaningful youth participation. Previous experience in a professional context is desirable, showcasing the ability to navigate professional environments and engage in collaborative projects effectively.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: Display the capacity to interpret and provide qualitative and innovative feedback on policy documents and questions, contributing valuable insights to discussions and decision-making processes of the NL MFA.
Communication and Collaboration: Manage expectations effectively, maintaining clarity, transparency, and flexibility in fulfilling assigned tasks. Possess strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate productively within a diverse team environment.
Advocacy and Representation: Advocate for meaningful youth participation in policy processes, demonstrating the ability to step beyond personal interests and represent a diverse range of young people. This includes leveraging knowledge, experience, and backgrounds to amplify youth voices and perspectives effectively.
Adaptability and Growth Potential: Show willingness to adapt to evolving circumstances and embrace opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Benefits
YAC members receive a monthly stipend of €158, and all costs associated with travel to and from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, including visas, flights, and accommodation, are covered.
Selection Process:
Round 1: Initial selection based on CV and motivation questions.
Round 2: Group selection round to assess teamwork and collaboration skills.
Round 3: Individual follow-up interviews for shortlisted candidates.
How to Apply
For more information and job application details, see; Fully Funded Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs Youth Advisory Committee Program for Young People
