Paris, 3-5/11/2023

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.