Youth associations in Meise sign joint drugs and alcohol charter

Youth organizations in Meise, Belgium, have united to create a common set of rules regarding alcohol and drug use. Following a year-long effort by a working group, all participating associations have signed a charter that standardizes their policies on these substances within their operations.

The initiative was driven by the Meise Youth Council's observation that differing approaches to alcohol and drugs among various youth groups were causing confusion. The working group consolidated existing rules from all youth initiatives, collaborating with the Association for Alcohol and Other Drug Problems (VAD) to develop a single, cohesive charter.

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With this charter, our youth initiatives show that they are taking responsibility together for the well-being and health of children and young people.

This unified charter will take effect in September 2026. Its implementation is intended to ensure consistency and clarity in how youth organizations manage alcohol and drug use, thereby fostering a more predictable and secure environment for the young people involved.

Meise's Youth Alderman, Wim Verbeke, expressed his approval of the initiative. He stated that the charter demonstrates the youth organizations' collective commitment to the well-being and health of children and adolescents. Verbeke highlighted that clear, agreed-upon rules will establish a safe framework for youth development and provide support for the volunteers managing these activities.

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By setting clear agreements, we create a safe framework in which young people can develop and volunteers are supported in their work.