Scotland’s Youth Parliamentarians have met in the Scottish Parliament for the first time in seven years.
More than 100 young people aged between 14-25 – chosen to represent their local area or one of a number of voluntary organisations – took part in the session to debate various social issues affecting their age group.
The Parliament’s presiding officer, Alison Johnstone MSP, said that she was “pleased” to be able to “provide a platform for [young people] to debate issues that matter.”
Founded in 1999, the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) was established to ensure that young people’s voices are heard as part of the nation’s political processes.
During that time, their campaigns have included a push to lower the voting age to 16, calls for “a rights-based approach to education reform” and demands for better mental health education and support.
The event marked the tenth meeting of young people in Holyrood. MSYPs discussed issues such as British Sign Language, period products, public transport, mental health, vaping and more. SYP committees will also propose policies in areas including higher education and the cost-of-living crisis.
In addition to this, SYP are planning ahead to the 2026 Scottish parliamentary elections, for which the organisation will once again develop and launch its own manifesto. Members also took part in training sessions on national campaigns.
Ellie Craig MSYP, Chair of the Scottish Youth Parliament said:
“We are excited to return to The Scottish Parliament, which allows our Members to experience democracy first-hand, in what is known as the ‘people’s parliament’.
“MSYPs are enjoyed a busy schedule from speaking in the debating chamber, meeting with their committees, and planning future campaigns as well as previewing the future and what the next 25 years will bring for both of our parliaments.
“Our young people are grateful to staff from both the parliament and The City of Edinburgh Council for hosting us at the weekend and appreciate the efforts that go into organising this event.”
Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament, Rt Hon Alison Johnstone MSP, said:
“Involving, engaging, and inspiring young people to have their voices heard is vital in ensuring the Scottish Parliament represents all those it serves.
“I’m so pleased to welcome over 140 MSYPs to the Parliament's Debating Chamber, which will provide a platform for them to debate issues that matter to them and the constituents that they represent. It is particularly important this year as the Parliament marks its 25th anniversary and we implement a human rights-based approach to the involvement of children and young people in our work.
“The Scottish Parliament is here to represent everyone in Scotland equally. I want all children and young people to feel they have a voice in their Parliament. It'll be fantastic to look out from the chair and see our Debating Chamber filled with the voices and perspectives from young people all over Scotland.”
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