In August, one youth worker accompanied by two young people embraced the cooler climate of Lillestrøm, Norway, as they engaged in meaningful work during a Youth Participation Activity. This event was a chance to engage deeply with European partners on important issues affecting our societies - youth crime in Europe.

Our participation in the seminar was the result of connections made previously during a training session in Rome. There, we built strong relationships with other organizations committed to youth development and social change. These connections paved the way for our collaboration in Lillestrøm, where we had the opportunity to continue building on our shared commitment to addressing critical challenges, including the pressing issue of youth crime in Europe.

Youth Crime in Europe: A Complex Challenge

Youth crime is a sensitive and increasingly urgent topic in Europe, one that demands our attention and action. The conventional response often leans towards punishment, seen as a quick solution to deter criminal behavior among both young people and adults. But how effective is punishment in truly addressing the root causes of youth crime?

During the seminar, this question became a central theme. Through discussions, workshops, and shared experiences, we explored the multifaceted nature of youth crime and the varying approaches to managing it across different countries. The reality is that punishment alone is not enough—it often fails to tackle the underlying issues that drive young people towards criminal behavior in the first place. 

We followed up with Selena and Andrei, the two young participants who attended the activity, to hear their reflections and impressions of the experience.

Can you describe your experience at the youth participation activity in Lillestrøm? What were the most impactful moments for you during the event?

S: For me personally, one of the most impactful moments was the presentation given by the two people who started the Lif Laga business (https://www.liflaga.no/) as it highlighted one of the main mistakes we as a society do witch is mislabeling people that have committed some sort of crime activity. These people proved that with the right intentions and a lot of determination you can create a place in which such individuals feel welcomed and on top of that benefit the local community on a larger scale then we might think. Their presentation was deeply impactful and motivational for me. 

A: The whole activity in Lillestrøm was a experience that changed and shaped a bit the way I see the world. The most impactful moment of the event was the first day. Hearing so many things from social workers and qualified people who worked with the youth crime was the climax of the project. 

What does crime mean to you, and how do you perceive the act of committing crimes as a young person? Did your understanding of these concepts change during the programme?

S: From my perspective, a crime consists of an illegal act committed by an individual. If past me would’ve felt slightly judgmental of the young people who have committed a crime, present me now knows that if given the support and encouragement to the young people from disadvantaged backgrounds the chances of them committing crime significantly decrease. No one is born bad, it’s just the circumstances that give people the push to turn towards crime and it is our responsibility to do our best and prevent it. 

A: Yes. My conception and understanding of this phenomenon widen and I got to see that there is more to youth crime than just the usual crimes. I also got to understand the main causes that lead towards juvenile delinquency. For me youth crime it's the process in which a youth commits any type of unlawful actions. 

From Punishment to Prevention: Rethinking Our Approach

One of the key takeaways from the seminar was the critical importance of prevention. We need to shift our focus from reactive measures, like punishment, to proactive strategies that prevent youth from engaging in criminal activities in the first place. This involves creating supportive environments, offering educational opportunities, and providing meaningful alternative activities that engage young people positively.

Moreover, we emphasized the importance of empathy in our approach. Understanding the personal and societal factors that lead young individuals towards crime allows us to address their needs more effectively. An empathetic attitude can help bridge the gap between authority figures and youth, fostering trust and opening the door to more constructive dialogues.

Empowering Youth Through Participation

Another highlight of the seminar was the emphasis on youth participation. By involving young people in discussions and decision-making processes that affect them, we empower them to take an active role in shaping their futures. This not only helps in reducing crime but also builds a sense of community and responsibility. As we return from Norway, we are more inspired than ever to continue our work in addressing youth crime through prevention, empathy, and participation. The insights gained from our partners in Lillestrøm will undoubtedly shape our future initiatives, and we look forward to fostering further collaborations that promote safer, more inclusive communities for all.