The Structured Dialogue is a forum for young people and policy-makers to discuss how youth policies should be shaped and implemented in Europe. Consultations are conducted among young people in each EU country on a thematic priority set for each work cycle (18 months). The consultations feed into the EU Youth Conference, where youth representatives and youth ministries officials debate the outcomes of national consultations before agreeing on joint recommendations. These in turn are addressed to the European institutions and national authorities.

National Working Groups conduct this participatory process at national level and may receive financial support to help them animate the Structured Dialogue in their country. The National Working Groups have been nominated by the national authorities and involve youth organisations, youth ministries, youth councils and other stakeholders.