Social Justice Matters Podcast - Launch of National Social Monitor The Future Starts Now: Policies for the Next Generation

In Ireland, the National Policy Framework for Children and Young People and the commitment to youth participation through structures such as Comhairle na nÓg and the EU Youth Dialogue provide a strong foundation for the inclusion of young people in policymaking. However, emerging challenges—including the cost of living, housing pressures, digital literacy and safety, and the need for a just green transition—require renewed focus and stronger cross-sectoral coordination.
In this Spring 2026 edition of our National Social Monitor, Social Justice Ireland outlines the present situation on a range of policy issues that impact on young people’s wellbeing and looks at whether policy is addressing the issues to ensure a fair and sustainable future for the young today. This edition of the National Social Monitor does not attempt to cover all the issues. It is offered as a contribution to the ongoing public debate.
The document and video can be accessed HERE.
This episode is the chance to listen back to our webinar launch HERE.