An alumni of the European Youth Parliament has been selected to be honoured with the Federal Medal of Merit. On the occasion of the anniversary of the German Constitution Day (Verfassungstag), the President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is giving federal orders of merit to 24 people who have worked “for freedom, democracy and against right-wing extremism and violence”. Our very own Sophie Debrunner Hall is one of the two individuals from outside Germany who have been chosen to receive an award.
The Federal Medal of Merit is the order that is awarded to people under the age of 40. The main reason for receiving the order is her dedication to EYP which, according to the organisers’ words, lets young people experience European politics and inspires them to believe in a united Europe.
Here is what she had to say for the occasion:
“I feel very privileged to have been a volunteer with EYP, and it has taught me so much: confidence, teamwork, NGO management, what the Commission does and how to layout a conference lanyard. Most important has been to see what thousands of young people across Europe get done, every day, with passion and courage and a great sense of humour. I see this medal as a generous recognition not just of my work but all of theirs, too.”
Sophie has been an active member of EYP Switzerland since 2009 where she has served in several positions. She has also been on the Governing Body of the EYP and on the board of the Schwarzkopf Foundation. Currently, Sophie is finishing her Masters’ in Comparative Social Policy at the University of Oxford, where she focuses on social investment, family policy and gender.
The event will take place on Tuesday, 22nd May at 11 o’clock in Schloss Bellevue, Germany.
We congratulate Sophie on her success and wish her all the best for the future!
