Young people demand better housing options in Tórshavn

The newly established youth council in Tórshavn is prioritising improved housing opportunities for young residents, according to a report by Faroese broadcaster Kringvarp Føroya.

For the first time in 12 years, the Tórshavn municipality has formed a youth council, consisting of five members elected for a two-year term. The council will act as a liaison between the local government and young people in the capital.

“This is an area that will now be addressed,” said Hermann Mortensen, director of welfare in Tórshavn, referring to the council’s role in representing youth concerns.

Housing availability for young people has long been a pressing issue, and the new council aims to change that, according to Maisól Hentze, the council’s chairperson. “Housing opportunities for young people have been neglected for too long,” she said, calling it a key priority.

The council’s responsibilities include reviewing municipal proposals and independently raising issues important to young residents. Alongside Hentze, the council members are Sjúrður Eysturoy (deputy chair), Markus Køtlum (treasurer), Gabriella Vang (secretary), and Fríði Leitisskarð.