Euroscola - 28 February 2019

"At a time when radical parties are gaining ground in Europe, we need to remind ourselves constantly of why we created the European Union: to defend equality and freedom!" declared the Portuguese school delegate, in her address to the 600 participants of the #euroscola session of 28 February 2019.

The British school representative added "despite Brexit, my country will continue to be fully committed to Europe, both historically and diplomatically".

Through contemporary dance, sign language and speech, the Spanish school delegation reiterated the importance of our "cultural heritage, whose diversity we should be proud of" and concluded "Let's grow by being different and enrich each other! Let's share, let's learn, let's live!"

Questions raised by the students in the Q&A session ranged from the EU's role on the international stage and its action to prevent China from taking a too prominent position, to the EU's action to protect unaccompanied migrant children, through to how to make sure Member States take serious measures in developing renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions, and why there are no transnational lists in the European elections of May 2019?

In the afternoon, the students deliberated on six key issues - including youth employment, security vs data privacy, migration and integration - debated and voted on their peers' proposals, once back in the Chamber.

A day in the shoes of an MEP, surely to be remembered! ;-)