Youth Policy in Bremerhaven: What Was Decided in February 2026

Youth Policy in Focus: Bremerhaven Decisions in February 2026

In the most recent meeting of the Youth, Family, and Women's Committee in Bremerhaven (Session 4404, 19.02.2026), numerous decisions were made that will have a lasting impact on the lives of children, young people, and young adults in the city. The topics range from the expansion of leisure opportunities through the promotion of queer youth work to the integration of refugee children into the education sector. Below is an analysis of the most important decisions and developments.

Youth Participation: Youth Parliament and Proposals

A central issue in the meeting was the involvement of young people in political decision-making. The Youth Parliament presented its annual report and submitted two proposals that were unanimously or majority approved by the committee members.

The proposal „Let’s Have Fun – Expand Leisure Opportunities“ shows that leisure opportunities for young people in Bremerhaven are recognized as a central component of youth policy. At the same time, it becomes clear how important it is to be present in the digital world as well. The second proposal „Greater Reach on Social Media to Reach Young People“ was unanimously approved. This is a signal that the city takes the communication channels of young people seriously and is taking new approaches in public relations.

Inclusive Child and Youth Welfare: A Milestone in Integration Policy

Another milestone was the unanimous adoption of the framework concept „Inclusive Child and Youth Welfare“. With this, Bremerhaven is setting a clear course for barrier-free, participatory, and resource-oriented child and youth welfare. The concept aims to support children and young people equally, regardless of their origin, disability, or life circumstances.

In addition, the 14th Participation Rights Report was noted, and the reporting cycle was changed to every two years. This allows for systematic review of the implementation of participation rights and contributes to the sustainability of youth policy.

Integration of Refugee Children: Language Support as a Key to Education

Another relevant topic was the integration of refugee children into the education sector. In 2025, 224 school-age children and young people without sufficient German skills were newly registered. The city has established a structured offer of welcome courses, literacy courses, and support groups to integrate these children into regular classes in the long term.

The goal is clear: within one year, the language level A2 should be reached to enable school participation. This shows how much Bremerhaven is focused on educational opportunities for all children – regardless of their origin.

Free Pass for Young People: Participation through Mobility

The free pass for young people will remain in place until 2027, which is an important basis for social participation for many young people. However, it also became clear that the free pass will no longer be applicable to events such as the Bremerhavener Fair in the future. The committee therefore calls for an extension of the free pass to such events in order to reduce the financial burden particularly on low-income families.

In addition, it is being examined whether the free pass can be supported by an increase in the budget and better public acceptance. A report on these considerations is planned for the next meeting.

Future of Youth Communication: Use of Social Media

Another important topic was communication with young people. Social media, especially TikTok, plays a decisive role in youth communication. The proposal from the Youth Parliament to examine the use of TikTok as a communication channel was approved. TikTok not only offers a high reach but also the possibility to deliver creative content directly to the target group.

This decision shows that Bremerhaven's youth policy does not rely solely on traditional approaches, but also uses new, digital platforms for communication.

Outlook: Youth Policy in Motion

The decisions of the Youth, Family, and Women's Committee in February 2026 underline that Bremerhaven's youth policy is in motion. It responds to the needs of young people, promotes inclusion and diversity, and uses modern communication channels. At the same time, it remains focused on social participation, integration, and educational opportunities for all children and young people.

In the course of 2026, it will be important to see how these decisions are implemented in practice. In particular, the expansion of the free pass and the digitalization of youth communication are central challenges that need to be addressed.

Bremerhaven's youth policy is on a path that emphasizes both participation and innovation. This is a positive signal for the future of the city – and for the young people who live in it.