​As the next European elections approach, scheduled from 6th to 9th June 2024, the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) hosted a lively debate on the future of Europe in its 159th Plenary Session, held in the Parliament hemicycle. The debate featured youth organizations from different European political families, as well as Young Elected Politicians (YEPs) from each group. The discussions reflected diverse perspectives on the role of youth in shaping the EU's democracy, and the urgency of motivating young people to vote.

The first debate included the participation of Valentina Servera Clavell, president of the youth movement of the European Free Alliance (EFA) party. She emphasized the need for more youth representation and diversity in European institutions, and the need for young generations to feel represented by them. She also denounced language and cultural suppression, giving examples of the lack of rights for languages such as Catalan and Breton, and urging members to keep advocating for this diversity.

The second debate focused on how to mobilise young people ahead of elections. It featured the participation of Máirín McGrath, YEP of the European Alliance (EA) Group. She highlighted the increased engagement of young people in the EU and stressed the importance of youth participation in elections. She suggested some improvements, such as better political education and transparent media engagement. She also criticized holding elections in June, proposing May as a better alternative due to conflicts with exams and travel plans.

Finally, other members also took part in the debate, such as Joseph Kobor, recently appointed as rapporteur general for an opinion on the Defence of Democracy Package. He pointed out that Europe had failed in many challenges with young people, and that Europe should change to better represent the interests of the young. The debate on the future of Europe at the CoR was a valuable opportunity to hear the voices of young people from different political backgrounds and regions. As the next European elections draw near, the CoR reaffirmed its commitment to supporting youth participation and representation in the EU’s democracy.