European Youth Parliament
The European Youth Parliament (EYP) gives young people between 16 and 22 the space to discover Europe, to nurture dreams for its future, actively confront current social issues and then discuss them with their peers. These youngsters live democratic participation and tolerance within an international dialogue while gaining qualifications crucial for their personal development and professional futures, such as international teamwork, languages and social competence. With its almost 100 sessions annually, the EYP reaches some 15,000 young people in 34 countries, and with more than 4,500 alumni, has a pool of dynamic young people interested in politics and especially in helping shape Europe’s future together.
Structure and organization
Students from all over Europe gather for EYP sessions. Within mixed teams they develop resolutions that address current issues of European policy, which they debate afterwards in a general assembly using parliamentary rules. They then present these results to political decision-makers.
At the national level, 34 independent national associations run by youthful volunteers coordinate and execute the activities of the EYP in their respective countries. Internationally, the Schwarzkopf Foundation Young Europe coordinates the national branches and acts as their parent organization.
Objectives
Through its Europe Program, Stiftung Mercator promotes a strong Europe that speaks with one voice internationally and plays a positive role in helping confront global challenges. It seeks to get young people excited about that kind of Europe.
The EYP supports young people to stimulate them and give them the tools to experience and help shape Europe. It is our hope, together with the EYP, to sharpen young people’s interest and sensitivity to a “Europe from beneath,” thereby promote a new, young European movement. Also, a “Mercator Diversity Fund,” will focus on reaching young people from migration backgrounds and financially supporting their participation in the EYP.