Maltese youth engage in EU democracy

The premises of Aġenzija Żgħażagħ were a hive of activity over the weekend of 10/11 January 2026, where 35 young people from 7 post‑secondary institutions in Malta and Gozo participated in the 14th Malta National Model European Parliament (MEP) session. They were supported by 16 MEP alumni, who formed the committee presidents and the presidency throughout the event, ensuring a dynamic and professional learning environment. In the weeks prior, participants received preparatory training delivered by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ youth workers on parliamentary structures, drafting resolutions, lobbying processes, and debating mechanisms.

On the first day, the young delegates formed 4 separate committees, each tasked with the responsibility of drafting a resolution on contemporary issues facing EU member states today. These ranged from the issue of endangered languages to the question of artificial intelligence as a threat to copyright. The committees were expertly presided over by the MEP alumni, resulting in the drafting of four robust resolutions.

The second day started with each participant lobbying for the support of their fellow delegates to endorse amendments that they had drafted and to garner support for their respective committees’ resolution. During this stage, the Honourable Keith Azzopardi Tanti visited the 14th session and took the time to speak with the delegates, sharing that the topics being discussed were highly relevant to current national and European agendas, particularly the impact of artificial intelligence. During this time participants were applying the finishing touches to the speeches that they would be delivering later that day.

The General Assembly, presided over by MEP alumni, was the culmination of the event. At its conclusion, the CEO of Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, Ms Miriam Teuma addressed the young people, emphasising how programmes such as the Model European Parliament help them develop transferable skills for use in other initiatives, while encouraging them to take an active role in youth organisations.

The outcome of the selection process was Sir M.A. Refalo Sixth Form, Gozo, being recognised as the top overall school and thereby chosen to represent Malta in the 63rd iMEP session to be held in Hungary this coming March. The 5 top‑performing delegates were chosen to form a delegation to attend the 64th iMEP session to be held in Portugal during the month of November.

The Malta National Model European Parliament session once again proved to be a unique opportunity for young people to engage directly with European issues whilst developing essential skills in critical thinking, leadership and debating.