Investing in the younger generation is a top priority for the government, according to House president Annita Demetriou, who addressed the opening ceremony of the seventh session of the Youth Parliament on Monday.

In her speech, Demetriou stressed the importance of “empowering youth and equipping them with the necessary tools and opportunities”.

In addition to Demetriou, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou and representatives from the event’s organisers also delivered addresses.

Among them were the acting executive director of the Youth Board of Cyprus Maria Miltiadou, the president of the Cyprus Youth Council Constantinos Loizou, and the president of Cyprus Youth DiplomaCY Amalia Avraam.

“Young people today possess impressive skills, especially in adapting to new circumstances,” the House president said, highlighting that younger generations show greater passion and assertiveness regarding social emancipation and individual rights, and have clearer visions of what they can achieve if given the right resources and recognition.

She then added that organising the annual Youth Parliament session has now become an institution in Cyprus.

“The fundamental right of young people to participate in matters that concern them should not be a mere demand but a political imperative,” Demetriou said.

She acknowledged some challenges young Cypriots face, including “brain drain and unstable working conditions that do not match their qualifications”.

She added that Cyprus has one of the most educated and dynamic young workforces, capable of making significant contributions across all sectors.

“These contributions add value not only to the organisations that employ them but also to the country’s economy and social fabric,” she said.

This year’s Youth Parliament session focused on global issues with local impact, including migration, asylum, illegal employment and the strengthening of European identity through education. Environmental management and sexual and reproductive health and rights were also discussed.

Looking ahead to 2026, when Cyprus will assume the EU Council presidency, Demetriou stressed that “Cyprus’ close ties with European institutions would ensure its political and economic protection”.

She reaffirmed the country’s commitment to defending “the European way of life, democracy, and the rule of law”, while expressing support for the government’s efforts in finding solutions to the Cyprus problem.

Demetriou also mentioned the parliament’s internship programme, launched in June 2022, aimed at promoting participatory democracy and familiarising young people with parliamentary procedures.

Speaking after the House president, Michaelidou described the Youth Parliament as an educational experience that provides participants with an understanding of parliamentary functions while helping them develop dialogue and active citizenship skills. She said that the initiative’s outcomes are immediately utilised, with proposals sent to relevant ministries.

She also added that the cabinet has designated 2024 as the ‘Year of Youth’, with a targeted programme already underway.

“This initiative includes various activities aimed at giving young people a platform to voice their concerns directly to officials, including the president,” Michaelidou said.

Miltiadou reiterated the Youth Board of Cyprus’ long-standing support for the Youth Parliament, while Loizou called it “the best youth empowerment programme in Cyprus”, adding that a record number of applications for new young representatives were received this year, reflecting the programme’s growing recognition.

Finally, Avraam urged leaders to listen to the younger generation, describing them as “passionate and willing to take responsibility for creating a more inclusive society”.