‘Your voices will be a key factor in shaping Europe’s future, and you have a vital role to play in building the Europe of tomorrow”, said President Tajani, addressing a Strasbourg Chamber filled with young people from all parts of Europe and the World. “It is here that the peace, democracy and prosperity, which the European Union has assured for 70 years, become a tangible reality – day in, day out”, he said, adding “Like you, the Members of the European Parliament reflect the wealth of different backgrounds, languages, cultures and ideas which make up the European Union.”

He reminded the young representatives of some 130 groups that generations of young Europeans before them had lived through the horrors of war, “separated by trenches and repressive walls, they were never masters of their own destiny”.

The President called upon the group representatives “to help, through your ideas, to revitalise this as yet incomplete project and talk about our common future”. Before taking questions from the floor, the president invited them to “look carefully at the next European elections” : “It is important that all of you make your own choices in May 2019. Choose who to represent you on these benches.”

The third edition of the European Youth Event (EYE2018) gathers a record number of more than 8000 participants engaging in 400 activities, debates, performances and workshops in Parliament’s premises in Strasbourg, from Friday 1 June 10:00 to Saturday 2 June 19:00. The debates are centered on five themes: Young and Old - Rich and Poor - Apart and Together - Safe and Dangerous - Local and Global.

Cross-generation, cross-border ideas

The EYE is an international event for young people by young people (16-30 years old). Most of the activities are designed and prepared by one of the 130 participating youth organisations, including the YO!Fest in front of Parliament.

EP President Antonio Tajani and 50 MEPs are participating in workshops and debates.

An EYE2018 mobile application with all relevant information and updates is available for participants and press.

Next steps

The outcome of the sessions will be wrapped up in the EYE report with best ideas to be presented in special youth hearings in Parliamentary committees in the autumn.

Watch the event via EP Live