Critical youth groups call for a re-evaluation of the state government's policies
In Lower Saxony, a coalition of over 40 youth organisations and student councils have voiced their concerns about the affordability and accessibility of proposed changes to the statewide ticket policy for students, trainees, and volunteers. The criticism, reported by the Youth Ring Braunschweig in a press release, centres around a perceived lack of inclusivity in the new ticket policy.
The organisations, which include student bodies and youth volunteer groups, are advocating for a policy that is more accessible and inclusive for all young people and volunteers. Some of the groups are pushing for a nationwide 29-euro ticket for students, trainees, and volunteers, while others are calling for a more radical solution: a completely free Germany ticket for all young people and volunteers.
The criticism stems from the potential change in the statewide ticket policy. Initially, the promise of a 29-euro ticket for the mentioned groups was part of the coalition agreement. However, recent developments suggest that this promise is no longer under consideration. Instead, a more expensive ticket is being considered, but it would only apply to a limited group of people.
The organisations have formulated their joint demands and expectations in an open letter to the state government and the parliamentary groups of the governing parties SPD and Bündnis 90/Die Grünen. In the letter, they demand a fundamental change of course and a genuine improvement in mobility for young people and volunteers. They urge for broadening the eligibility criteria for the ticket, extending its availability or coverage to more regions or time periods, and ensuring affordable and reliable public transport options to support youth participation in social, educational, and volunteer activities.
The organisations also emphasise that students and holders of the youth leader card (Juleica) must also be considered in any changes to the ticket policy. They believe that the state government's chosen path disregards the needs of students, trainees, students, and volunteers, and they are urging for a reorientation in the state government's policy on "Mobility of young people and volunteers".
For precise details on the organisations' motivations and specific demands, it is recommended to consult official statements from Lower Saxony youth organisations, student councils, or local government releases. The full letter and all the organisations involved can be found at the following link: www.jurb.de/offener-brief.
