The newly proposed global indicator in the new report focuses on one single element that can open doors to youth participation: whether or not countries have formal mechanisms in place for young people to engage in education decision-making.

A survey was issued to all UNESCO member states to address this question. In total, around 93 member states answered, showing that only one in three have laws or policies formalizing their engagement at present. They were more common in high-income countries, liberal democracies and, counterintuitively, in aging societies where young people represent a minority of the population.

Four out of five have established consultation mechanisms, driven largely by advocacy from youth organizations at global, regional and national levels.

Surveys were also issued to almost 500 youth and student organizations, which were mapped by the GEM Report globally. Their answers told a different story. While around 60% confirmed they were consulted during policy design phases, only 35% reported that their feedback was not actually incorporated into final decisions.

Overall, satisfaction with government engagement remains low, with only 20% of youth and student organizations feeling they are genuinely collaborating as valued partners in shaping education policy. School student groups reported the lowest satisfaction levels of all.