Strasbourg, France — 14 June 2025
Earlier this month, the Youth of the European People’s Party (YEPP) actively participated in the European Youth Event (EYE) held at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. This biennial event gathered thousands of young Europeans for a dynamic exchange of ideas focused on building a more democratic and inclusive future for Europe.
YEPP President MEP Lidia Pereira officially opened the event with a compelling address, inspiring participants and emphasizing the vital role of youth in safeguarding and renewing democratic values. Her remarks set a powerful tone for the sessions that followed, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and transnational cooperation.
As part of the official program, YEPP Vice President Derek Groot hosted an interactive workshop that explored the future of democracy in Europe. Young people from across the continent attended the session, which provided a space for reflection on the challenges facing democratic institutions and encouraged the proposal of innovative, youth-led solutions. The workshop culminated in a spirited speed debate, during which attendees engaged in meaningful discussions on pressing political issues, from civic participation to digital governance.
The event not only showcased YEPP’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment but also reaffirmed the importance of dialogue and grassroots involvement in revitalizing European democracy. In a time of increasing political apathy and institutional distrust, the energy and optimism displayed by young participants in Strasbourg served as a powerful reminder that the future of democracy is being shaped by the next generation—today.
