Member of the European Parliament Sophia Kircher was elected President of the Youth of the European People’s Party at the XV YEPP Congress. From July 11th to 13th, YEPP held its Electoral Congress in Brussels, bringing together more than 200 young delegates from across Europe. Over two intensive days, participants engaged in high-level debates on youth policy, innovation, and Europe’s future—culminating in the election of a new leadership team to steer YEPP into its next chapter.
Since March 2025, Sophia Kircher has served as Deputy Federal Party Chair of the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), and since June 2024, she has sat in the European Parliament in Brussels as Vice-Chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism. In the previous term, she served as First Vice-President of YEPP.
“Being elected President of the Youth of the European People’s Party is a great honour and a clear mandate for me. In this role, I will continue to work to ensure that young voices are heard at all levels, to develop concrete solutions, and to actively shape the future of Europe. Our generation is facing challenges that require long-term solutions—from war and conflict zones at Europe’s borders to migration and disinformation, and the climate crisis” President Kircher declared after the election.
Alongside Kircher, Edelmira Ferri from Nuevas Generaciones (Spain) was elected Secretary General of the organisation. After serving for two consecutive terms as Vice-President of YEPP, she brings her active spirit and ideas to lead the day-to-day operations of the largest youth political organisation in Europe. Along with them, 12 other members from 12 different countries were elected to the Executive Board for 2025–2027.
A Time of Transition: Farewell and New Beginnings
This Congress also marked a significant moment of transition for YEPP leadership.
Outgoing YEPP President Lidia Pereira, who has led the organization for the past six years, delivered a heartfelt farewell speech. She reflected on her journey with YEPP, highlighting its evolution into a stronger, more dynamic force in European politics. Under her leadership, YEPP has become a platform that truly amplifies the voices of young Europeans and has had a meaningful impact on Europe’s political discourse.
Alongside Pereira, Heidi Hanhela, YEPP’s outgoing Secretary General, was also recognized for her invaluable contributions. Known for her diplomacy and tireless work, she has been a cornerstone of YEPP’s success, ensuring the organization’s smooth operations behind the scenes.
A Congress Focused on Ideas and Action
The Congress opened with remarks from MEP and Vice-President of the EPP Group Siegfried Mureșan, who addressed the delegates via video message. In his speech, Mureșan emphasized the critical role of youth organizations like YEPP in defending Europe’s democratic institutions and advancing new political ideas at a time of global uncertainty.
Two policy panels set the tone for the Congress, encouraging fresh thinking and dynamic exchanges on key issues facing Europe’s next generation of leaders. The first one on Youth Participation focused on strategies to boost youth participation in politics and civic life, while the second one, “Sustainability Through Innovation“, addressed the balance between technological advancement and sustainable development.
Day Two: High-Level Speeches and New Leadership
The second day of the Congress welcomed a distinguished lineup of speakers who shared their perspectives on Europe’s economic and political future.
Maria Luís Albuquerque, Commissioner for Financial Services, Savings, and the Investments Union, opened the day with a keynote address on EU financing and youth. She underscored the importance of creating policies that foster innovation, promote financial inclusion, and secure long-term prosperity for Europe’s next generation.
Following Commissioner Albuquerque, Dolors Montserrat, Secretary General of the EPP, delivered a powerful message on defending Europe’s core values. She urged young leaders to take on greater responsibilities in shaping the continent’s future, stressing the importance of standing firm in the face of growing challenges to democracy.
Later in the afternoon, François-Xavier Bellamy, MEP and EPP Treasurer, delivered a thought-provoking speech on the moral and philosophical challenges facing Europe today. He called on young political leaders to act with courage and conviction, reminding them of their duty to uphold Europe’s cultural and democratic foundations.
The final address of the day came from Claudia Plakolm, Austrian Minister of Europe, Integration and Family, who focused on youth policies at the European level. Plakolm emphasized the importance of making young people a priority in policymaking, highlighting the need for their voices to be heard at every level of government.
Looking Ahead
With a new leadership team and a renewed sense of purpose, YEPP is ready to continue its mission of empowering young Europeans, fostering innovation, and shaping the political agenda for a stronger and more united Europe. The Brussels Congress set the stage for the next chapter, one that promises fresh ideas, bold leadership, and a steadfast commitment to Europe’s future.
