During EYP sessions, peer moderators guide participants through a structured program. They work in groups called “committees”, discuss current political topics and develop resolutions, putting forward solutions to the given challenges. These solutions are then debated with all participants in a parliamentary setting. The topics of an EYP event centre around current topics of the European political agenda, such as energy, security, human rights et al.
The EYP exists through the work of young volunteers all over Europe. Around 3,500 volunteers plan, prepare and carry out EYP activities, and these same young people make the decisions on how the EYP is run. Through their participation in the EYP, young Europeans gain valuable skills, knowledge and confidence, and are empowered to have an impact on society. As an organisation for civic education, the EYP seeks to equip its members with transversal skills that formal education often does not provide. To guarantee a high level of educational value, the EYP puts a strong emphasis on capacity-building and training formats for active members and volunteers.
Other than academic knowledge about European topics, the European Youth Parliaments lets participants live through political processes and aims to promote their deeper understanding. By offering a space for everyone to engage in discussions and share their views, the EYP established itself as an effective platform for peer and civic education.
90.3% of participants felt that taking part in an International Session increased their willingness to get involved in society and/or politics.
99.1% of participants felt that after participating in an International Session, they were motivated to address issues that affect the people and environment around them.
86% of participants claimed that participating in an International Session helped form their own opinion(s) and express them in front of others.
