This year, Master of Public Policy student Eva Bemelmans was selected as a Youth Ambassador for The ONE Campaign, an international organisation fighting for a more just world by demanding the investments needed for economic opportunities and healthier lives in Africa. The programme brings together a cohort of passionate young leaders from across Europe to advocate for global health, economic justice, and development cooperation. As part of this initiative, Eva will engage directly with policymakers, build partnerships, and contribute to campaigns aimed at holding governments accountable to their international commitments.
We spoke with Eva about what this opportunity means to her, how it connects to her academic journey at UNU-MERIT, and what advice she has for students eager to get involved in global activism.
Advocating with Evidence
“What inspired me to apply for the ONE Youth Ambassador programme is a deep commitment to social justice and a belief in the power of informed, collective action,” Eva explains. With a background in law and her current focus on public policy, she was drawn to The ONE Campaign’s evidence-based advocacy. “Its emphasis on using data and research to influence policy aligns closely with my academic background and my own vision for impactful activism.”
While still exploring what form her future career might take—whether in human rights law, inclusive policymaking, or international development—Eva is certain that advocacy will remain central. “This experience is helping me discover how I can contribute most effectively,” she says. “It’s deepening my understanding of development and the complexities involved in influencing policy, whether that’s through engaging with politicians, building campaigns, or coordinating events.”
Bridging Academia and Activism
As a student in the MPP Migration Studies specialisation, Eva sees her education and activism as mutually reinforcing. “Academic training and real-world activism are both essential to influencing effective policymaking,” she explains. “What I’ve seen in class is that while high-quality research exists, it’s often not reflected in political discourse or decisions. Activism plays a vital role in raising awareness and holding institutions accountable—bringing evidence-based perspectives into the public spotlight.”
That’s precisely what attracted her to ONE: its strong emphasis on data-driven campaigning. “Activism without a foundation in accurate information risks losing impact. The exchange between theory and practice pushes me to think more creatively and realistically about solutions—how to turn research into action.”
Making the Case for Solidarity
In today’s polarised and inward-looking political environment, Eva acknowledges that making the case for international solidarity isn’t always easy. “You often hear, ‘Why help abroad when we have problems at home?’ But this isn’t an either/or question. Developed countries can and should do both.”
She believes the key lies in communicating both the moral and practical benefits of cooperation. “Issues like poverty, climate change, displacement, and health inequality don’t stop at national borders. We saw during COVID-19 how a crisis in one place affects us all.” Her academic training and advocacy experience have both shown her that many challenges—whether inequality or pandemics—require cross-border solutions. “Development cooperation leads to a more stable, just, and healthier world. At ONE, we combine facts and people power to push for policies that reflect that reality.”
Starting Small, Thinking Big
Asked what advice she would give to students who want to engage in global activism but feel unsure where to start, Eva reflects: “The term ‘global activism’ can sound big—maybe even intimidating. But the best way to begin is to start small.”
She encourages her peers to follow their curiosity: “Ask questions, sign a petition, attend a talk, join a campaign. Before joining ONE, I was worried I didn’t have enough experience. But nobody starts as an expert—what matters is showing up, being open to learning, and recognising the value of your voice.”
Even writing this interview, she admits, she had a moment of doubt: “Who am I to give advice?” But it’s this humility—combined with the courage to act—that defines her approach to advocacy.
“Global activism is made up of small, personal actions. Your contribution matters.”
Building Skills for Long-Term Impact
In her role as Youth Ambassador, Eva is part of the Campaign & Partnerships working group, where she helps build relationships with other organisations, amplify shared messages, and contribute to joint campaigns. “We’re planning two larger initiatives—like a coordinated petition or open letter—and I’m really excited to help bring those to life.”
These experiences are not only valuable now but will also shape her future. “I’m gaining skills in coalition-building, strategic communication, and event planning—skills that will serve me whether I go into policy advising, human rights law, or NGO work.”
One of the most meaningful parts of her role is learning how to engage policymakers. “We’ll have the opportunity to lobby and have meaningful conversations with Dutch political leaders. I’m looking forward to growing—not just in confidence, but in how to effectively communicate across audiences, from officials to young people like me.”
As she looks ahead to the rest of her year as a Youth Ambassador, Eva is focused on building meaningful relationships, gaining practical advocacy skills, and continuing to champion the values of equality and cooperation. Her journey reminds us that bridging evidence and activism isn’t just possible—it’s necessary.
And for students unsure of where to begin? Her message is simple: “You don’t need to feel completely ready. Just begin.”
