Taipei: The Executive Yuan has given its approval to a draft bill aimed at creating a foundation in Taiwan that will enhance youth development and promote greater involvement of young people in public affairs. The proposed “Youth Basic Law” now awaits legislative approval and intends to provide a general legal framework for the public sector at both central and local levels to incorporate a “youth perspective” in facilitating youth development.

According to Focus Taiwan, the draft bill mandates that central and local governments create mechanisms that allow young people aged 18 to 35 to participate in the development of various policies, regulations, and programs. This initiative is designed to ensure that the voices of the youth are considered in the formulation of public policies that affect them.

The bill also requires the central government to initiate a “youth policy white paper,” which will be updated every four years in alignment with national development goals and societal needs. Chen I-tsung, the deputy head of the Youth Development Administration under the Ministry of Education, announced in a Cabinet press briefing that the first white paper is expected to be drafted by February 2026.

Furthermore, the Executive Yuan plans to establish a board led by the premier that will be responsible for formulating youth policy and coordinating efforts to implement measures related to youth. Minister without Portfolio Shih Che emphasized that the bill, inspired by similar legislation in other countries, is about affirming fundamental values regarding youth development and participation.