EYP is an acronym that stands for "European Youth Parliament," referring to a unique educational program and international organization that promotes political awareness, teamwork, and intercultural dialogue among European youth. The European Youth Parliament was established in 1987 and has since grown into a prominent platform for young people to engage in political debates, discuss societal issues, and develop their leadership skills.
EYP operates through a network of national and regional branches across Europe, involving young participants aged 14 to 28. The organization designs and coordinates sessions known as "EYP sessions" wherein participants, known as delegates, engage in various activities, including simulated parliamentary debates, committee work, and team-building exercises. EYP sessions are usually multilingual and involve a diverse range of topics, such as climate change, human rights, and European integration.
During EYP sessions, delegates have the opportunity to enhance their public speaking, critical thinking, and negotiation abilities, while also fostering intercultural understanding and empathy within a European context. The environment created by EYP encourages participants to explore different perspectives, develop informed opinions, and cultivate teamwork skills through collaboration with peers from various European countries. The organization aims to empower young people to actively participate in democratic processes, exchange ideas, and make a positive impact on society.
Overall, EYP serves as a platform that fosters European unity, while simultaneously equipping young participants with valuable skills and experiences necessary for their personal and professional growth.
