Our delegation attended the LevelUp! event in Brussels organized by Youth Forum.
More than 1000 young people from all over Europe gathered in Brussels to learn new things, share their ideas and experiences, and of course make some international friendships.
The event took place inside the European Parliament, symbolically showing us the openness of European institutions towards its citizens. Through many interesting and interactive workshops and side events, which participants have chosen for themselves, we learned how to actively participate as a part of society.
As Young Democrats for Europe, we cannot stress enough the importance of these events which promote the importance of active citizenship and participation – the values we as Europeans consider to be of great significance.
On the 8th of March YDE delegation attended the Convention of the European Democratic Party. Members of our delegation were Asier Areitio (President), Alice Bernard-Montini (Secretary General), Sergio Medina (Treasurer) and Antonella Velić (Vicepresident).
Preparing for the upcoming European elections, after months of hard work, we finally unvield the EDP Manifesto! With 300 priority proposals the Manfifesto outlines top priorities for shaping the future of the European Union.
We had the opportunity to hear the speeches of Jean-Noel Barrot (French Minister Delegate in charge of Europe), Sandro Gozi (EDP Secretary General), Nicola Danti (Italian MEP), and François Bayrou (President of EDP) along with the insights of many other delegates attending the Convention.
After the statutory part of the Convention we also attended four inspiring panels with topics concerning the future of our continent. Green Europe, Inclusive Europe, Safe Europe and Sovereign Europe are not just the names of those panels, these topics can also be found in the EDP Manifesto!
We were honored to hear the words of Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Belrusian politician, whose steadfast advocacy for the people of Belarus amidst challenges to freedom of speech and politics is a testament to her unwavering commitment to democratic values.
Young Democrats for Europe strongly support the unity of centrists at the European elections.
The growing influence of far-right movements and populist ideologies across Europe necessitates a proactive and united response. As advocates for a strong pro-European stance, we recognize the importance of forming alliances among Renew Europe members in Italy and beyond to counter the divisive forces that threaten the core values of our democratic societies.
In pursuing a cohesive centrist family in the European Parliament, we envision a collaborative effort to establish common lists throughout the continent. By creating a united front, like-minded parties can leverage their collective strength, pool resources, and present a more formidable presence in the European political arena. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of centrist representation but also serves as a powerful deterrent against the divisive rhetoric propagated by far-right entities.
Central to our mission is the promotion of a federalist future for Europe. We believe that deeper integration and collaboration among European nations are essential for addressing shared challenges and advancing common goals. This commitment to a federalist vision aligns with our broader objective of fostering unity and solidarity, not only within individual countries but across the entire European Union.
As Young Democrats for Europe, we understand the younger generation’s pivotal role in shaping our continent’s future. We are dedicated to communicating our message effectively, mobilizing support, and encouraging active participation in the democratic process. Through grassroots efforts, engagement campaigns, and open dialogue, we aim to empower the youth to become active contributors to the political discourse and advocates for a united and inclusive Europe.
Let’s Renew Europe for YOUth! This weekend we took part to the second Renew Europe Youth Summit! More than 100 young people from all over Europe joined us to celebrate our Youth Manifesto. Our two Vicepresidents Tina Andrioti and Matteo Brizzi took part in representation of YDE.
In a year preceding the European elections, Renew Europe has strengthened its efforts to reach out to young people and is, therefore, organizing regional youth events in partnership with national delegations. The purpose of this regional youth event is to publicly present the approved Renew Europe Youth Manifesto and show Renew Europe Group’s continuous commitment to listen and give response to the challenges young people are facing in Europe, especially in light of the European Elections in 2024.
Together with our partners, we work hard to build a Union which delivers to young people. The Young Democrats are ready next years European Elections!
From 3rd to the 5th of November the event ‘Winter of Democrats‘ took place in Paris. The event was an extrodanary chance for young people from all over Europe to engage in thrilling debates and exchange ideas about the current state and the future of the European Union.
The event began with an engaging session with the French MP and EDP Deputy Secretary General Frédéric Petit, shedding light on the challenges to European democracy, integration, and the conflict in Ukraine.
After a lunch generously provided by EDP, the participants gathered for the significant conference ‘Europe dealing with crisis’ with Marie Pierre Vedrenne (French MEP), Laurence Boone (French Minister in charge of Europe), Alice Bernard-Montini (Secretary General of YDE) and Maud Gatel (French MP) where we discussed about the most significative challenges laid on the European path towards the 2024 elections. During the panel, representatives of French institutions and of European youth signed a Paris appeal to the European youth symbolizing their commitment to a more united and democratic Europe.
The day continued with an interactive workshop led by Alexandra Leuliette, Head of the 2014 MoDem european campaign and IED board member offering a practical opportunity to address the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming European elections.
To conclude the first day of the event participants enjoyed a dinner at the charming Le Mazette restaurant, generously hosted by Renew Europe, still under the impression of this remarkable day, fostering connections and strengthening their dedication to the future of Europe.
On the morning of the second day, young representatives from various parties gathered for the General Assembly to discuss and deliberate on the future of Europe and the upcoming challenges.
During the General Assembly YDE welcomed a new observer member party from Belgium, Youth MCC.
It’s been an intense weekend, bringing together young minds from across Europe converging to shape a brighter future through lively debates on democracy and the path ahead. A tapestry of diverse voices weaving a stronger and more united Europe.
