The Council of Europe Award " Young Active Citizens" was instituted 2002 whit a view to encourage people , especially the youngsters to get active to change their lives. The Award focuses on the participation of young people in political, social and cultural life at local, regional or national levels throughout the 49 member states party to the European Cultural Convention. The Award aims to establish direct links between young people and policy-makers, and to raise awareness of the practice of youth participation.