Ejercicio B1 · Inglés PAU Valencia Ordinaria 2022

TEXT B / TEXTO B

2022: EUROPEAN YEAR OF YOUTH TO EMPOWER YOUNG PEOPLE

The 2022 European Year of Youth (EYY) will focus on re-establishing a positive outlook for European young people negatively affected by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Designating 2022 as a year focused on young people means increased efforts will be made to include youth priorities in relevant EU policy areas and at every level of the EU’s decision-making process.

The EYY will aim to engage young people in key consultation processes, such as the Conference on the Future of Europe, and in other public policies at EU, national and local levels. There will be a special focus on young people with fewer opportunities and on mental health issues. The EYY will include conferences, initiatives promoting youth participation in policy making, awareness-raising campaigns on a more inclusive, green, and digital EU, as well as studies and research on the situation in which young people in the EU find themselves.

“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to disproportionately affect young people”, said Sabine Verheyen. “They face the challenges of trying to continue their education and enter the job market (…) make new acquaintances and discover other countries. Young people have accepted and supported the ongoing restrictions out of solidarity. Now it is time to let them flourish ”, she said. “This year will lay the foundation for giving young people a stronger platform to make their voices heard”, she stressed, adding that we need “all young people to be involved and participate in creating a better, greener, more digital and inclusive future in Europe.”

Adapted from an article in EU Monitor, 15-12-2021

Part I. Reading Comprehension

B1. Answer the following questions using your own words but taking into account the information in the text. (2 points: 1 point each)

a.

On which two main areas will the Conference on the Future of Europe focus?

b.

What difficulties do young people face after the pandemic?