San Marino, the oldest surviving state in Europe and the oldest Republic of the world, has built its identity on the value of civic participation and the strength of community. Within this context, the Giovani Democratico Cristiani (GDC – Young Christian Democrats) have, for seventy years, represented a cornerstone of the nation’s political and social life. Founded in 1955, they have contributed to every phase of the country’s recent history, bringing fresh ideas and reinforcing the spirit of service that defines Sammarinese politics— understood not as a profession, but as voluntary commitment in service to the nation.
Three core values define the GDC’s identity: commitment, for politics means assuming responsibility and proposing solutions; volunteerism, for every action is born of a spirit of service; and education, for before taking a stand it is necessary to understand, to reflect, and to develop critical thinking.
Among their most notable initiatives is the School of Political Training, an annual gathering that brings together professors, experts, and politicians in round-table discussions with young people. The subjects addressed range from Sammarinese history and institutions to digital democracy, from public ethics to environmental sustainability, from employment issues to digital and technological transitions, and even the impact of artificial intelligence. The aim is not merely to impart knowledge, but to cultivate critical thinking and the ability to act with awareness.
Alongside their educational efforts, the GDC organize public debates, workshops, international exchanges, volunteer projects, and cultural initiatives that strengthen the sense of community and open the Republic to dialogue with a broader world. Thanks to this vitality, the youth movement is not simply a reservoir of ideas, but a true forge of leadership. In 2025, two notable examples confirm this role: Alice Mina, elected president of the PDCS – the parent party – and Lorenzo Bugli, serving as Captain Regent of the Republic (Head of State) from 1st October 2025.
Today, San Marino is preparing for a crucial step: the Association Agreement with the European Union. The GDC regard itself as active participants in this process: on one hand, bringing citizens closer to European issues; on the other, strengthening ties with international youth networks—starting with YEPP—and giving San Marino a voice in the continental debate.
The challenges of the future—employment, the digital revolution, environmental crises, and the defense of democracy—demand that young people take a leading role. The GDC respond with the conviction that youth are not merely the future, but already the present, and that politics is the instrument by which talent and passion can be transformed into
the common good.
Seventy years on, the GDC remain a vibrant and essential movement: a bridge between past and future, between tradition and innovation, between San Marino and Europe.
By Sara Marinelli GDC International Secretary and YEPP Internal Auditor
