The European Youth Parliament (EYP) is a non-partisan, independent platform that brings together young people from across Europe to simulate the workings of the European Parliament, engaging them in debates on pressing issues and empowering them to develop leadership, teamwork, and diplomatic skills. Founded in 1987, the EYP serves as a unique space for youth, aged 16 to 24, to engage with European politics and gain hands-on experience in democratic processes.
Having been part of this incredible organisation for nearly five years, attending more than 30 events across 10+ countries and holding various roles — from a delegate to chairperson, president, organiser, and project manager — I can wholeheartedly say that my journey in EYP has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
The European Youth Parliament is more than just a simulation of the decision making processes — it is a powerful tool for empowering young people, promoting active citizenship, and building a strong, united European identity. EYP helps young people connect with their peers across borders and gives them the opportunity to have a meaningful impact on European and global issues.
Here is why EYP is more than just an event:
1. EYP offers participants a chance to engage directly with the decision making process, not as observers but as active participants. Delegates engage in critical discussions about contemporary challenges such as climate change, migration, digital transformation, and social justice. By drafting resolutions, debating them, and voting on the outcomes, delegates learn the importance of political participation and gain a deeper understanding of how decisions are made in the European Union.
2. One of the most powerful aspects of EYP is its ability to bring together young people from different backgrounds and cultures. Whether participating in a session in Portugal or Sweden, EYP fosters a space where young people can exchange ideas, challenge their perspectives, and collaborate with peers from across Europe. This international experience fosters mutual respect and a shared European identity that is essential for building a united continent.
3. In addition to learning about politics, EYP provides invaluable training in soft skills that will benefit participants throughout their lives. From public speaking and negotiation to teamwork, time management, and problem-solving, the skills developed during EYP sessions are applicable in virtually every professional and personal situation. EYP helps participants become better communicators, better leaders, and more effective team players — skills that will serve them well in any future career.
4. The skills and experiences gained through EYP are not just personally fulfilling — they can also be career-enhancing. After years of active participation, I had the opportunity to be noticed by an HR recruiter via LinkedIn, which ultimately led to a job offer. My leadership roles and international experience with EYP were recognised as valuable assets, demonstrating that the soft skills and leadership training gained through EYP are highly regarded by employers. For me, EYP was a catalyst that helped me transition from student to professional, and it continues to shape my career.
My EYP Journey: From Delegate to Leader
My journey with the European Youth Parliament began over four and a half years ago. Since then, I have attended over 30 events in more than 10 different countries, both in person and digitally, and each experience has played a critical role in my personal development. I started as a delegate, where I quickly learned the importance of research, public speaking, and the art of debate. I also gained a greater appreciation for how diverse the European political landscape is and how crucial collaboration is in finding solutions.
As I continued to participate in EYP, I took on more leadership roles. From being a Chairperson in numerous sessions of different scales to serving as president of sessions and organising large-scale events, I developed skills that went beyond simple participation. These roles taught me how to lead teams, manage complex projects, and work under pressure. Each new challenge further developed my communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills — skills that have been invaluable in my professional life.
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my EYP journey has been the realisation that every role — whether as a delegate, chairperson, or organiser — has played an important part in shaping the person I am today. Each experience, no matter how big or small, has contributed to my growth and development.
EYP Serbia:
One of the key aspects of becoming a delegate at a session organised by EYP Serbia, you must be in high school and go through the process of participating as a delegate at both a regional and a national session before becoming an official member. Once you become a member, you can continue to be active as a volunteer for many years, often staying involved until your mid-twenties. This makes it a great opportunity for young people to get involved in European affairs early on, developing skills and gaining experiences that can benefit them for years to come.
EYP Serbia is highly regarded for its organisation and the quality of its sessions, offering a rich and rewarding environment for Serbian youth to engage with their peers from across Europe. As part of EYP Serbia, I had the opportunity to represent my country in international sessions, meet incredible people, and participate in debates on issues that matter to us all. It was through EYP Serbia that I first encountered the vibrant, international community that exists within the larger EYP network.
Being involved with EYP Serbia also helped me build connections and friendships that have lasted well beyond the events themselves. The local chapter plays an essential role in fostering a sense of community, which is key to both personal growth and the success of the EYP at large. To stay updated on upcoming events, initiatives, and community activities, you can follow EYP Serbia on their social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
How to Get Involved in EYP:
If you are a young person interested in getting involved with the European Youth Parliament, the good news is that there are many ways to participate. Whether you are passionate about European politics, eager to make new friends, or just want to develop your leadership skills, EYP offers opportunities for everyone.
The most common way to get involved in EYP is by applying to participate as a delegate. Each national and regional office (Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and local office Novi Pazar as of this term) holds yearly selection sessions where young people can apply to attend events. In Serbia, the eligibility criteria are that you must be in high school to participate.
The European Youth Parliament is more than just an opportunity to debate — it is a transformative experience that offers personal, academic, and professional growth. Through EYP, young people not only develop essential skills like public speaking and teamwork but also become part of an international community that fosters understanding, collaboration, and active citizenship.
For me, EYP has been an essential part of my personal and professional journey. The skills I developed through my involvement, the people I met, and the opportunities I received have had a profound impact on my career. If you are a young person looking to get involved in shaping Europe’s future, the European Youth Parliament is the perfect place to start. It is not just about attending events — it is about building a future, one debate at a time.