„Thanks to collaborations like our visit to the European Institute of Public Administration, we gain more awareness of the different actors involved in the decisions that shape our daily lives as European citizens. In a way, it also helps us, as students, feel more connected to the job market and to our future prospects, and more aware of the role we can play in shaping that future ourselves.“ Júlia Peña, Project Manager of Maastricht 2026 National Conference
Young voices took centre stage during a panel debate organised by the European Youth Parliament (EYP) Netherland under the theme “Bridging Borders: Building Europe’s New Chapter”. The event, part of a broader programme running from Friday to Tuesday, brought together students, policymakers, and experts to explore how Europe can strengthen cooperation and resilience in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Youth perspectives on Europe’s future
The debate formed part of the activities organised by European Youth Parliament in the Netherlands, which engages high school students aged 15–18 in simulations of the European Parliament and discussions on pressing European challenges. Through regional and national conferences, the initiative encourages young people to develop critical thinking skills and a strong sense of active European citizenship.
„Young people bring fresh ideas and represent the future, so their voice in politics is essential. Without them, decisions that impact their future are made without their approval and politics would become more distant and disconnected again.“ – Elisa Roberto, Delegate
Young delegates gathered to discuss how Europe can transform its diversity into strength while addressing shared challenges such as migration, climate change, economic disparities, and youth engagement.
A panel of experts and policymakers
The session featured an engaging panel including:
Valentina Mazzucato, Professor of Globalisation and Development at Maastricht University
Wolfgang Koeth, Senior Expert at the European Institute of Public Administration
Elianne Demollin-Schneiders, Deputy for Governance, Education and Labour Market, Regional Deals and European Funds
Bram van den Berkmortel, political representative for the local party M:OED in Maastricht
Each speaker addressed key questions on Europe’s future.
Spotlight on youth participation and cross-border cooperation
During the debate, experts reflected on how Europe can ensure that young people’s voices actively shape policy decisions, particularly in areas requiring cross-border collaboration. The discussion also examined how the European Union can strengthen its economic resilience through fair and future-proof trade partnerships and how innovative migration partnerships could help address labour shortages while creating safe and mutually beneficial migration pathways.
In particular, Wolfgang Koeth highlighted the importance of effective cross-border governance and youth engagement in shaping Europe’s next chapter. Drawing on his expertise at EIPA, he emphasised that Europe’s ability to tackle complex transnational challenges depends on stronger cooperation between institutions, regions, and citizens. He also underlined that platforms such as the European Youth Parliament provide a valuable space where young people can practice democratic debate and contribute fresh perspectives to European policymaking.
EIPA’s support
As part of its support to the initiative, the European Institute of Public Administration (EIPA) provided accommodation in its building for participants over two days of the programme. In addition, EIPA contributed to the discussions through the participation of its Senior Expert, Wolfgang Koeth, in the panel.
Engaging the next generation
The session concluded with a Q&A, where young delegates posed questions to the panel on topics ranging from economic cooperation to migration and civic participation. The exchange demonstrated the enthusiasm of Europe’s younger generation and reinforced the importance of involving youth in shaping Europe’s future.
