The OSI Youth Initiative seeks to empower youth to become active citizens who are willing and able to influence public life and promote open society ideals.

The international initiative is an expansion of what began in 1995 as the Debate Program. While its work with debate continues, the initiative also provides small grants and technical assistance to build the capacity of youth-focused local organizations and encourage a broader range of youth-led projects that promote open society values.

Looking ahead, the Youth Initiative plans to develop strategies for achieving greater structural impact in targeted countries through work with Ministries of Youth and Sport and the development of national youth policies.