European Parliament President Martin Schulz has launched the EYE2014 initiative with a view of finding out young people`s thoughts, concerns and proposals on matters such as youth unemployment, the digital revolution, the EU`s future, sustainability of businesses and European values.
To that effect, during a press conference on Tuesday, he called on all young Europeans from 16 to 30 years of age to take part in a three day event, in Strasbourg, between May 9 and 11 2014; a city, which as he said, is historically dedicated to the idea of Europe.
Schulz noted that he looks forward to hear what young people have to say, their input in the wider discussion on Europe as well as their contributions.
At the same time, replying to a question on next year’s European elections, he pointed out that it will be an opportunity for young voters to make their opinion count and vote for those candidates who will promote the policies they agree with.
Young participants` ideas and conclusions will form a final report for presentation to the newly elected MEPs as well as other European decision makers with a view of serving as a source of inspiration.
The three days will see political debates and workshops with European political decision makers and high profile speakers from business and civil society, role-play games and idea laboratories, a Youth Village and Festival organised by the European Youth Forum and a concert and street Festival.
Young people wishing to participate can do so by visiting www.europarl.europa.eu/eye2014 from Tuesday onwards.
Despite the fact that there is no fee for attending the event, participants will have to cover their own transportation, accommodation and living costs.
Registration in the event is only possible as a group of a minimum size of ten participants.
The event`s full cost has not been shaped out yet, it was noted in reply to a question, however it was clarified that the funds used will not exceed what is included in the Communications budget of the EP.
Speaking during the press conference Strasbourg Mayor Roland Ries referred to the idea of youth mobility as well as of Strasbourg`s symbolic role on the ideals of democracy, peace and human rights.
He further pointed out that it is time for values to be discussed and not just economic and political policies.
European Youth Forum representative J. Nyman noted that the event will be an opportunity for dialogue on such matters as high youth unemployment but also of effecting change.
