Youth Policy in Remscheid: New Youth Council and Investments in Playgrounds

A Strong Democratic Experience: The Election of the 12th Youth Council

In March 2026, the local election for the Youth Council of the city of Remscheid took place. With a voter turnout of 56.1 percent, this marked a new high compared to previous years (2024: 52.8%, 2022: 53.8%). In total, 2,368 young people participated in the election, with 2,331 valid votes cast. The highest turnout was recorded at the Röntgen Gymnasium (85.27%). Overall, 15 young people were elected to the Youth Council, including eight female and seven male members from various school types.

The election of the Youth Council is a central step in youth participation in Remscheid and shows that young people are increasingly interested in political processes. The induction seminar for the new council members took place in Bielefeld, followed by the constitutive session on April 28, 2026. During this session, the executive board of the Youth Council was also elected, and initial project proposals were presented.

Investments in Playgrounds: Development Promotion through Infrastructure

Another focal point of youth policy in Remscheid is the renovation and renewal of playgrounds and football pitches. In April 2026, concrete measures were decided that are to be implemented in the coming months. These include the renovation of the Dowidat-Siedlung playground, the restoration of the Johannesstraße playground, and the renewal of the surface of the football pitch at Am alten Flugplatz. These measures are part of the Youth and Children's Development Plan 2026–2030 and affect several playgrounds in the city.

The total costs for the renovation and replacement measures amount to approximately 1.17 million euros, with an unplanned allocation of 159,300 euros required. These measures aim to improve the quality and safety of stay for children and young people. In addition, trees are to be planted on sun-exposed playgrounds, and protective measures such as sun sails and shelters are to be installed. These investments show that Remscheid is actively responding to the needs of the youngest generation for better play and leisure opportunities.

Youth Council and Youth Welfare Committee: Together for the Future

The Youth Council plays a central role in the development of youth projects and the shaping of youth policy in Remscheid. In close cooperation with the Youth Welfare Committee, recommendations and decisions are made that are significant for youth promotion. For example, the project "4. CSD in Remscheid meets RS-United" was funded from the Youth and Children's Development Plan. This project focuses on inclusion, diversity and political education and is another example of the active role the Youth Council plays in the city.

In April 2026, several meetings took place in which the results of the Youth Council election were discussed, a review of international activities such as the visit to the "Conseil des Jeunes" in Quimper was conducted, and future projects were presented. The Youth Council is thus not only a forum for political participation, but also a driving force for creative and social initiatives.

Outlook: Youth Policy as an Investment in the Future

The decisions and projects of April 2026 show that Remscheid is actively caring for the future of its youngest citizens. With a new Youth Council, confirmed by high participation, and investments in playgrounds and youth projects, the city has sent a clear signal about the importance of youth participation. These measures not only contribute to improving the quality of life, but also to strengthening the democratic culture in Remscheid.