By Sophie Lynam
On the 12th of June 2025, I had the absolute privilege of travelling to the European Youth Event (EYE) in Strasbourg with the NYCI. This was my first time being in the European Parliament, so to say it was unforgettable is an understatement. It was my first year being eligible to attend the EYE, and it certainly won’t be the last time I attend.
As part of the NYCI delegation, we facilitated a workshop that was held both days of the EYE inside of the European Parliament. This was titled ‘Do You Know What It’s Like?’. Essentially, this workshop was all about inclusion in our government bodies. Although it was for young people, it was also for anyone who doesn’t see themselves represented in their local, national, or international government(s). What I noticed during the two sessions of this workshop is that people from across the globe were having the exact same issues when it came to representation; the common answers were that there is not enough young people, not enough women, not enough disability representation, not enough diversity, etc. It was incredible to see how people who had just met in that hour could come together and connect over the fact that we need change and we need change now. It gave me hope for our future.
Every workshop I attended over the two days at the EYE was so different and taught me something new. I don’t think I was expecting the event to be how it was at all. The most memorable was being able to sit in the Hemicycle and talk about the EU’s transition to sustainability. This was a moment that made me realise how lucky I was to be sitting in that seat, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, at just 17 years old. Not many people can say they achieved such a thing.
One thing I had noticed throughout the EYE was the age demographic every year is 16-30 years old. However, I found it quite disappointing when I couldn’t find anyone under the age of 18 at the event, except myself and another NYCI delegate, Niamh. We both looked for someone our age the entire time and had no luck. With no vote, it is extremely challenging to get our voices heard not just by decision makers, but in general. I would ask the European Union to create more events for those under 18 to engage in. It is so important to hear from those under 18 on international issues, as our future is being affected by conversations at these events. We must have our say.
I would like to thank the NYCI for letting me attend the EYE 2025, especially Megan, Dermot, and Jean-Marie. With every opportunity, the NYCI is shaping my future even further. The Young Voices group is such hard-working group of young people striving to make the world a better place. I am so lucky to be part of that group. My journey with the NYCI has just started, and I can’t wait to see the ways I can help young people like me to ensure we get the future we deserve.