Scotland, as part of the UK Member State, is committed to the EU White Paper on "A New Impetus for European Youth" (2001). The main areas of this White Paper are participation of young people, information to young people, voluntary activities and greater understanding and knowledge of young people. All Member States have also agreed to co-operate and share good practice on youth issues through the Open Method of Co-ordination. The EU does not, however, have authority on youth issues. It is therefore the responsibility of Member States on how they take forward youth issues - this is devolved to Scotland in the UK.
Member States reported back to the European Commission at the end of 2005 on progress made on participation of young people and information to young people.