TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Executive Yuan will convene on Thursday (May 1) to pass the "Youth Basic Law" (青年基本法) and send it to the Legislative Yuan for review. This law, designed to integrate youth perspectives into policymaking, aims to support young people returning to their hometowns and addresses issues such as substance abuse prevention and increased psychological counseling.
Shih Che (史哲), a minister without portfolio, emphasized the importance of this legislation after the passage of the "Generational Policy and Industrial Development Promotion Act" (壯世代政策與產業發展促進法). He expressed hope that the Youth Basic Law would ensure that societal resources, environments, and government finances are shared across generations. Shih stated that the law comprises 28 articles and defines youth as individuals aged 18 to 35, although it respects other ministries' age-related policies.
The law mandates that government policies consider youth opinions and encourages their participation in public affairs. It also includes measures to combat digital violence, fraud, and promote digital literacy. The Executive Yuan plans to draft a youth policy white paper every four years, with the premier leading a Youth Affairs Development Committee (青年諮詢委員會), which will include scholars, central government officials, and youth representatives, serving as the highest decision-making body for youth affairs.
Shih highlighted the existing Youth Advisory Committee, which provides consultation and advice, but noted that the Youth Affairs Development Committee would elevate youth involvement to the decision-making level. This move aims to prevent the white paper from becoming mere rhetoric and to promote youth mainstreaming effectively.