Youth engagement on health as a political issue

Abstract

Abstract Background In France, young people do not participate in the development of health policy. The latter is built on a representation of the young person who, because of his age, cannot have an opinion and proposals for his health and improve that of others. However, different young people are involved in health actions and propose improvements for the health system and prevention. The communication concerns the ’Re’Pairs Santé’, young people who are committed with Unis-Cité, a national association, to developing health actions with other young people. Methods 20 ’Re’Pairs santé’ were interviewed in 3 French cities on their motivation for this engagement. Similarly, 80 young beneficiaries of their actions were met in focus groups to get their perception of Re’Pairs santé. Results The engagement of Re’Pairs santé is part of a dimension of solidarity, and on their experience as young people to change the way adults and public policies are represented. For other young people, if there is an improvement in their health knowledge, half of them are involved in other local associations and/or are involved in changing health within their own structure. Conclusions Health is not a minority issue both in the daily lives of young people and as a potential source of engagement. The Re’Pairs santé investment allows other young people to get involved in other structures. Thus, the social impact is not limited to the transmission of health information but promotes social cohesion and the development of social capital. The place and role of young people in the development of public health policies must be better valued and legitimized in order to better meet their expectations but also to destigmatize a population that has many resources. Key messages Fostering youth engagement on health. Youth should be considered as a resource for health policies.