What is eyp

Overview

The European Youth Parliament (EYP) is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to fostering democratic participation and European integration among young people. Founded in 1987 in Vienna, Austria, EYP has grown to become one of Europe's most significant youth-led political organizations, with branches and participants across more than 40 countries. The organization provides a platform for young Europeans to engage with complex political issues, develop leadership skills, and build networks across cultural and national boundaries.

How EYP Works

EYP operates through a decentralized network of national committees, each responsible for organizing activities within their respective countries. The organization's flagship events are the annual National Sessions and the biennial European Sessions. At these sessions, participants—typically aged 15 to 35—form committees, debate policy issues, draft resolutions, and engage in formal parliamentary procedures modeled after the actual European Parliament. This hands-on approach allows young people to understand legislative processes and develop their argumentative and diplomatic skills in a supportive environment.

Educational Impact

Beyond parliamentary simulations, EYP provides educational workshops, seminars, and discussion forums on contemporary European issues such as climate change, immigration, economic policy, and social justice. The organization emphasizes critical thinking and encourages participants to challenge assumptions and develop well-informed positions on complex topics. By engaging with peers from different countries and cultural backgrounds, participants gain deeper understanding of European diversity and develop cross-cultural communication skills.

Structure and Values

EYP maintains a strictly non-partisan stance, welcoming participants from all political backgrounds and viewpoints. The organization is governed democratically by its members and staff, reflecting the values of participation and transparency it seeks to promote. Leadership within EYP is distributed among board members, national committees, and session organizers, all of whom volunteer their time to support the mission of youth empowerment and European education.