Across Europe, thousands of young people gather every year to debate current issues, exchange ideas, and build friendships that cross national borders.
This exchange is made possible by the European Youth Parliament (EYP), one of Europe’s largest youth networks – an organization “run by young people, for young people.”
What began as a small initiative in 1987 has grown into a continent-wide platform that gives young people the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of European cooperation, democracy, and active citizenship. Today, with thousands of active volunteers, the European Youth Parliament operates in around 40 European countries as an independent, non-partisan, non-profit educational organization.
The EYP is best known for its sessions which are multi-day events that simulate aspects of parliamentary work. Participants are assigned to committees focusing on specific topics such as climate policy, technology, migration, public health, or international relations.
During the committee work phase, delegates research their assigned topic, learn from trained facilitators, discuss different viewpoints, and draft a resolution containing policy recommendations. At the end of the session, committees present and defend their resolutions in front of all participants. Delegates debate the proposals, ask questions, and vote on them, closely mirroring real parliamentary procedures.
However, the focus is not on winning arguments but on finding constructive solutions through dialogue and cooperation.
Although debating is the main part of the EYP events, the social and intercultural aspects are equally important. Participants do not only exchange ideas during formal sessions, they also share personal experiences, perspectives, and stories during their free time. International connections often develop into lasting friendships, creating a network that extends far beyond the conference room.
Getting involved with the EYP is relatively straightforward. Most participating countries have their own National Committee, which organizes local, regional, and national events. Young people interested in joining typically apply through their country’s committee. Successful participants may later be selected to attend international sessions alongside delegates from across Europe.
In summary, the European Youth Parliament is built on a simple yet powerful idea: young people should have a space to express their opinions, engage with different perspectives, and learn how democratic decision-making works. Through conferences, training events, and international sessions, participants are encouraged to think critically about contemporary challenges and develop solutions collaboratively.
And who knows? Some of Europe’s future political leaders, diplomats, journalists, and changemakers may be taking their first steps today in the European Youth Parliament.
Amy Watson, ESC volunteer
