France

The Human Development Research Initiative (HDRI) is a youth-led think tank registered in Paris, France, and working at the intersection of research, policy, and grassroots activism. Founded in 2016, HDRI aims to advance inclusive, just, and sustainable development through youth empowerment, civic engagement, and public dialogue.

HDRI strives to engage young people in policymaking by connecting them with real-world challenges related to human rights, environmental justice, peacebuilding, and democratic participation. HDRI’s work is guided by the principles of inclusivity, integrity, and innovation.

Key Highlights and Ongoing Projects

• EmpowHER: Leadership and Empowerment Journey for Young Women (2025)
  A pilot activity co-funded by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe, taking place in Strasbourg. The project brings together 20 young women from across Europe for a 5-day programme on leadership, gender equality, civic engagement, and human rights — with study visits to European institutions including the European Parliament and the European Court of Human Rights.
• Civic Stakeholder Lab – Bar-le-Duc (2024–25)
  Developed as a response to civic disengagement in underserved French regions, this project aims to connect civil society actors, youth, and local authorities in dialogue and co-creation spaces. The project is being submitted as an inspiring practice under AEIDL's community-led social innovation call.
• Youth for Climate Justice Network
  HDRI coordinates youth engagement campaigns on climate justice, resilience, and energy democracy, with participation from EU and Eastern Partnership countries. These include webinars, research publications, and local actions.
• Policy Briefs and Dialogues
  HDRI regularly publishes youth-led research on development, peacebuilding, migration, and digital rights. Our dialogues and roundtables amplify the voices of young thinkers and grassroots actors.