Today the Party of the European Socialists Group in the European Committee of the Regions officially welcomed a new cohort of 44 progressive young local and regional politicians from across the European Union and from candidate countries for EU accession. They are part of the European Committee of the Regions’ Young Elected Politicians programme (YEPs) programme, which offers young local and regional representatives under 35 the chance to shape EU policies, work side by side with members of the Committee of the Regions, and benefit from targeted training and networking opportunities.
Speaking to the progressive representatives in an online meeting, Luca Menesini, President of the PES Group and President of the Municipal Council of Capannori and councillor of the Province of Lucca, Italy, stressed:
“At a time when our democracies and civil rights are under attack, at a time when we see growing inequalities and crises within and around the European Union, working with young leaders at the forefront of these challenges in their communities shows us the path to take. They are the voices of hope, solidarity, and innovation in our regions and cities. Together, we will build a fairer, greener and more inclusive Europe for all generations.”
Opening this programme to candidate countries for a second year in a row underlines the PES Group’s commitment to supporting democratic participation and building local leadership beyond the EU’s borders to support the EU enlargement process.
The programme is also a real springboard for young politicians. As an example, former Young Elected Politician Federica Cuna, who is a Provincial Councillor, Barletta in Italy, has gone on to become an alternate member of the European Committee of the Regions. Reflecting on her journey during the event, Federica Cuna said:
“Being part of the YEPs was a turning point for me. It gave me confidence, the skills and the European network to amplify my work for my community and to bring our local priorities directly into European debates. I encourage every young progressive to seize this opportunity. Within the socialist family, your voice matters at every level.”
Yonnec Polet, Deputy Secretary General of the Party of the European Socialists, also addressed the participants, highlighting the key role of young leaders in driving progressive change:
‘‘Young people are a strong force for mobilisation and social progress; we see this on matters such as climate change, housing, and peace. It was young people that strove for environmental issues to be put onto the European agenda. Both at the local and European level, the youth of today must always have a say in the decisions of today. As socialists, we are committed to empowering and giving a strong voice to young people. Through strong youth participation, we foster the strength of our democracies.’’
Background information:
- The PES Group network of young progressive local and regional leaders was set up in 2019 and has grown over the years, currently accounting for some 700 progressive leaders from all over Europe. Each year, the Group organises the #ProgressivesSpeakUp School, a two-day event hosted by one of its Group members in their hometown or region. More information is available here.
- Young Elected Politicians are also involved in the Group’s political campaigns and contribute to them with #ProgressiveLocalStories. They also play a key role in connecting citizens with European institutions, helping to bridge the gap between EU decision-making and everyday life. More information is available here.
Press contact:
Vanessa Paget - Vanessa.paget@cor.europe.eu
