In a dynamic and interactive setting, over 45 individuals gathered yesterday evening at STAM Europa on Rue d'Arlon for a panel discussion featuring candidates in the 2024 European Elections. Organized by Stand Up for Europe in collaboration with the Intercultural Dialogue Platform, the event titled “Youth and EP Candidates in Dialogue” aimed to foster direct engagement between European Parliament candidates and the youth.
The distinguished panel included Lucie Rousselle, Johan Langerock, and Olivia Ten Horn, each representing different political parties and bringing a wealth of experience from various sectors. Moderated by Sebastian Berchesan, Executive Secretary at Stand Up for Europe, the discussion provided a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into critical issues and bridge the gap between youth aspirations and the legislative agenda.
Critical Issues on the Agenda
The dialogue addressed pressing concerns facing the European Union, focusing on three key areas: Youth Engagement & Education, Environment & Climate, and Migration. Each candidate shared their perspectives and policy proposals, emphasising the need for proactive measures and inclusive strategies to tackle these challenges.
Lucie Rousselle, a city councillor in Ixelles representing MR (Renew Europe), highlighted the importance of integrating youth perspectives into policymaking processes. Drawing from her experience as a member of the Cabinet of EU Commissioner for Justice Didier Reynders, Rousselle underscored the progress and achievements made in the three key areas during the current legislative term while also addressing the challenges that remain for the coming mandate. She emphasised the need to eliminate the unanimity vote to prevent initiatives from being blocked by a single Member State.
Johan Langerock, a policy advisor for the Greens/EFA, stressed the urgency of addressing climate change. Representing Groen (Greens), Langerock called for robust environmental policies and sustainable practices, advocating for appropriate taxation measures to achieve desired results not only in environmental terms but across other areas as well.
Olivia Ten Horn from Volt (Greens) brought information from her work in the education sector and made it clear that fundamental human rights must be respected in all circumstances and at all costs, identifying disrespect for human rights as a red line that must not be crossed. She stressed the need to strengthen and defend our democracies and their principles.
The interactive format allowed participants to ask questions, share remarks, and engage directly with the candidates. Young attendees expressed a keen interest in the candidates’ campaign programs and their visions for the future of Europe. Beyond the three main issues discussed initially, participants raised questions during the Q&A session on topics such as mental health, integration, transnational public transport, democracy and the rule of law, as well as security and conflict resolution regarding the war in Ukraine and Gaza.
The event concluded with a networking drink, providing an opportunity for participants and candidates to continue the conversation in a more informal setting. The post-event discussions were as engaging as the panel itself, with many participants sharing their views with the candidates and posing additional questions.
Building a Responsive Political Environment for Youth
The event exemplified the commitment of Stand Up for Europe and the Intercultural Dialogue Platform to create platforms for active youth participation. By facilitating such events, these organisations aim to promote a more inclusive and responsive political environment where young citizens are empowered to contribute to shaping the future of the European Union.
As the European elections approach, events like this are essential for improving understanding and collaboration between young people and policymakers. The dialogue at STAM Europa provided valuable insights and inspired a sense of responsibility and commitment among participants, promoting more active citizenship, especially among the youth. This is vital given that Belgium currently has the highest proportion of first-time voters in the EU for the upcoming European elections, with one in ten people having never voted before, along with the recent lowering of the voting age to 16.
