CIVIC and the International Youth Foundation Launch Youth in Action: Network to Advance Youth Engagement in Brazil

Empowering Young Leaders to Shape Public Policy and Development

Across Brazil, young people and youth-led organizations are driving innovative solutions to some of the country's most pressing development challenges—from climate resilience and job creation to education, health, and social inclusion. Yet too often, these ideas and experiences remain disconnected from the public systems, financing mechanisms, and decision-making processes that shape development outcomes at scale.

To help bridge this gap, the World Bank Group's Civil Society and Social Innovation Alliance (CIVIC), in partnership with the International Youth Foundation (IYF), has launched Jovens em Ação: Rede (Youth in Action: Network)—a national Community of Practice connecting young leaders, youth-led civil society organizations, government counterparts, and World Bank practitioners across Brazil.

Building on the launch of the CIVIC Youth Engagement Program in Brasília, Fortaleza, and Salvador, the Network creates a space for ongoing exchange, learning, and collaboration among young people working to advance social change in their communities. Drawing on IYF's global expertise in youth leadership and economic opportunity, the initiative seeks to strengthen the capacity of young people to engage meaningfully in public policy and development processes.

Through peer learning, mentorship, and dialogue with public-sector leaders, participants will explore how community-driven solutions can inform public policy, government programs, and development investments. The Network will also support engagement with national participatory mechanisms, including Brazil's Plano Plurianual (PPA) and Brasil Participativo, helping young people better understand and navigate pathways for civic participation and policy influence.

At its core, Jovens em Ação: Rede reflects CIVIC's commitment to strengthening the connection between citizens, civil society, and institutions. By creating opportunities for young people to contribute their lived experience, ideas, and leadership, the initiative aims to foster more responsive, inclusive, and effective development outcomes.

Looking Ahead

Launched in 2026, the Network represents an important step toward institutionalizing youth engagement within development processes. CIVIC and IYF look forward to working alongside participants to identify lessons, strengthen connections, and support future opportunities for youth voices to help shape public policy and development priorities across Brazil.