Youth work is recognised as a powerful means of promoting young people’s personal development, social inclusion, and active citizenship. As a value-driven social practice aimed at fostering participation and social cohesion, it involves moral and ethical dimensions, with actions that carry social and political implications.

A working paper published by the Youth Partnership, Ethical Standards in Youth Work and How They Support Education and Career Pathways of Youth Workers, examined the nature, content, and limitations of existing ethical codes and standards in youth work. The study found that ethical practice in youth work is commonly defined through a set of standards encompassing fundamental principles and values, specific rules and policies, and the moral qualities, dispositions, and competences expected of practitioners. The findings underline that youth work requires a strong ethical foundation and a consistent commitment to ethical behaviour from all those engaged in the field.
 

 Objectives

Building on the conclusions of the 4th European Youth Work Convention, the Youth Partnership will develop a European Code of Ethics for Youth Work. This Code will aim to inspire, guide, and support youth work organisations and practitioners in fulfilling their roles amid complex societal challenges, while upholding shared values and ethical principles in their daily practice.

The Code will also contribute to strengthening the visibility, recognition, and trust of youth work among external stakeholders. It will draw on previous studies and research, existing ethical frameworks within the youth sector and will take inspiration from related fields, such as social work. A complementary educational component (such as a practical tool or learning material) could also be developed, focusing on ethical guidance and behaviour for young people and youth workers, including in sensitive contexts.
 

 Expected outcomes

A European Code of Ethics for Youth Work, complemented where appropriate by an educational tool or resource focusing on ethical guidance and behaviour for young people and youth workers.
 

 Indicative timeline

2027

Publication of the European Code of Ethics (first half 2027)

Complementary tool (tbc)