International meeting of former IYCW leaders in Haltern – May 2025

Haltern, a district of Münster in northwestern Germany, is a charming town ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the surrounding countryside. It is in this peaceful setting that the International YCW (IYCW) chose to continue its centenary celebrations. The KönzgenHaus training center, run by the CWM and YCW German movements, hosted the international meeting of former IYCW leaders from May 8 to 10, 2025.

This landmark event, organized as part of the YCW's 100th anniversary celebrations, brought together nearly 40 former YCW activists from different generations and backgrounds.

Coordinated by the International Cardijn Association (ICA), in close collaboration with the IYCW international team, this meeting was a unique opportunity for intergenerational dialogue, historical reflection, and renewed commitment to the present and future of the movement. The role of adults, the evolving ways of providing support, the living memory of the movement, and the contemporary challenges facing young workers were at the heart of the discussions.

Through presentations, testimonials, working groups, and plenary discussions, participants explored the impact of the YCW's work over the last century, highlighting the essential contributions of adults—chaplains, former activists, collaborators—in the development and consolidation of the movement.

The IYCW remains convinced of the importance of maintaining strong ties with its former members, who can continue to make a significant contribution. As one participant put it:

“As a former member of the IYCW, I am deeply convinced that adults have an essential role to play: supporting the movement so that other young workers discover the power they have within themselves to transform their lives and working conditions, while learning Christian values, working-class identity, and commitment through this process.”

In a global context marked by precariousness, growing inequalities and profound changes in the world of work, building a new society remains an urgent requirement and a living vocation for young people.

The meeting reaffirmed how valuable adult support can be in consolidating the YCW's educational project, provided that it is given in a way that respects the autonomy and leadership of young people. This support must be based on trust, intergenerational solidarity and a shared commitment to a more just world.