So, you’re too young or think you don’t know enough about EU politics to vote … But who says you can’t still have your say?
I certainly wouldn’t dare. In fact, the
European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) would love to hear from
you. Having members in day-to-day touch with the people of Europe, we
cherish the opinions and ideas of all citizens, young and old. But it
may seem hard for students in the distant corners of the Union to have
their say on Europe’s future. Brussels is just so far away!
So we have organised the most exciting,
yet instructive, field trip ever … all the way to the EU’s capital …
where 16- and 17-year-olds from all over Europe can meet like-minded
students, talk to political leaders and exchange views.
It could be you, if your school is
selected to take part in the ‘Your Europe, Your Say’ event, hosted by
the EESC from 26-28 March 2014. But first you have to convince your
teacher to apply via the online registration form before the closing date on 30 November (midnight Brussels time).
One school from each of the 28 Member
States will be picked at random and if yours is chosen, you might be one
of the three lucky students who, together with their teacher, will be
shown around Brussels, the EU district and sights. But that’s not all.
European Parliament elections are coming up in 2014. Under the campaign slogan ‘act, react, impact’,
citizens are being encouraged to choose who will represent them for the
next five-year term. It’s a big deal for Europe, but most of you
probably think, “Why should I care … I’m not old enough to vote,
anyway?”
Well, you should care because decisions
made in the EU affect you, your friends, your parents and, yes, your
school. And we think you should have your say. So in Brussels, we will
organise a real-life debate, where you will have to negotiate and
eventually agree on a resolution that could leave a lasting impression
on Europe.
Sign up to ‘Your Europe, Your Say 2014’ so your actions and reactions can have an impact too.
Jane Morrice
EESC Vice President
0 comments:
Post a Comment