Youth Policy in Jena: How the City Actively Involves and Supports Young People

Youth Participation: From Petitions to Discussions in the Youth Parliament

The participation of young people in urban planning and politics is no longer just a formality in Jena. In April 2026, the Youth Parliament met in the Chorraum Junge Gemeinde Stadtmitte for a public session, during which topics such as the Open Letter on Democracy, the Youth Climate Advisory Board, and a committee inquiry were discussed.

A central theme was the event title “What upsets me? What do I like?” which encourages young people to participate in shaping their living environment. The presence of Commissioner Johannes Schleußner underlines the political importance of this platform.

Through such participation formats, the voices of youth are not only heard but also integrated into decision-making processes – a crucial step in building long-term trust between politics and young people.

School Social Work: Fair Compensation through New Support Systems

School development in Jena is being redefined by the new allocation of resources for school social work starting in 2027. Funding will be based on the number of classes and reviewed every two years. This adjustment is particularly significant for larger schools such as secondary schools and comprehensive schools.

Financial support is provided through VbE (Full-Time Equivalent Units), with clearly defined costs: 6,000 euros per VbE, covering both material and overhead costs. A notable innovation is the 100 percent reimbursement for schools run by independent providers – an improvement from the previous 80 percent funding.

This measure signals a clear intention to strengthen educational equality and reduce social disparities within the education system.

Graffiti and Youth Work: From Vandalism to Creative Inclusion

In Jena, graffiti is not only a problem to be combated but also a creative form of expression that can be channeled through pedagogical approaches. Young people use graffiti to gain attention, express identity, or protest politically – especially in the context of football culture.

In recent months, the city has developed a comprehensive concept to guide youthful creativity into legal channels. This includes, for example, the establishment of “Walls of Fame” in several districts, mobile graffiti walls, workshops, and graffiti competitions.

In addition, a central coordination point is being set up, featuring its own website to network projects, reporting forms, and contact persons. Young people who have committed offenses are being included in projects aimed at removing graffiti – a preventive model that reinforces learning effects.

Play Streets and Neighborhood Streets: Promoting Movement and Democracy

Another milestone in Jena's youth policy is the introduction of temporary play streets and neighborhood streets in Jena-West, Jena-South, Winzerla, and Jena-Center. With a budget of 1,500 euros per year, these streets will serve as activity areas for children and young people during specific times.

Implementation is carried out in close coordination with residents, local councils, and the city administration. The goal is not only to promote physical activity, but also to strengthen social interaction and democratic values. Jena would thus become the first city in eastern Germany after Berlin to systematically implement such projects.

Conclusion: Youth Policy as an Investment in the Future

The April decisions show that Jena is actively and systematically addressing the interests of young people. From participation in the Youth Parliament to the improvement of school social work and innovative youth work projects, the city is adopting a holistic approach.

These measures not only contribute to integration and security but also to the development of an inclusive, democratic urban society. Looking to the future, it will be crucial to consistently support these political impulses and continue actively involving young voices in urban development.