A total of 51 young participants from across Moldova took their seats in the plenary chamber of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova. These aspiring lawmakers experienced a day in the life of a deputy during the 8th edition of the Youth Parliament. The event provided an opportunity to engage directly in the legislative process, working within political factions and parliamentary committees, IPN reports.
During the session, participants formed four political factions - Liberal Party, Technocratic Party, Christian-Social Party, and Green Party - and debated eight draft laws addressing key societal issues. Topics included promoting youth representation in leadership structures by setting a 10% quota in local and national councils and Parliament, and improving access to contraceptives and personal hygiene products through free dispensers in medical centers.
Discussions also covered updates to the 2024 - 2030 Environmental Strategy, promoting sustainable development and social inclusion in entrepreneurship and eco-initiatives, modernizing the Tax Code for a fairer system, and recognizing internet access as a fundamental right by amending Article 34 of Moldova’s Constitution.
Another critical topic was the development and modernization of public transport, seen as vital for connectivity and reducing environmental impact, alongside integrating youth into the labor market by supporting non-formal education and initiatives to facilitate professional opportunities. These proposals reflect the participants’ interest in addressing pressing challenges and their desire to actively contribute to the country’s progress.
The Youth Parliament initiative aims to enhance civic engagement among young people and provide a deeper understanding of the legislative decision-making process.
“We are delighted to offer young people a platform to express their ideas and contribute to improving life in our country. This is an important step in shaping future generations of leaders”, noted the event’s organizers.
This year’s edition featured participants from Chisinau, Balti, Nisporeni, Falesti, Rezina, Ialoveni, Ungheni, and even Gagauzia and the Transnistrian region. The youths underwent training on political doctrines, legislative techniques, and negotiation skills before working in a Legislative Lab under expert guidance to draft their legislative proposals.
Participants described the experience as unique and valuable. “We learned to choose what is right and work efficiently without bias”, said a member of the Technocratic Party. Others highlighted the importance of unity: “The project helped us connect with people from Gagauzia and Transnistria, showing that the future can be brighter”, shared other attendees.
One participant from Gagauzia, Maria Arnaut, emphasized the practical learning: “I loved the hands-on exercise; it was a highly rewarding experience. I’m grateful to my team - the Green Party faction - and proud that, despite our differences, we worked together productively”.
The event was praised not only for its organization but also for fostering social connections and personal growth. “We built friendships and learned to confidently express our ideas”, one participant noted. The collaborative atmosphere and teamwork were key elements of the project’s success, inspiring a generation of engaged and motivated youth.
“I want to highlight how productive the day was. I gained crucial insights into the legislative process, from drafting and voting on a law to its publication in the Official Gazette. I hope one day we meet here again, not just as volunteers but as true lawmakers”, said Vasile Stupchevici, leader of the Green Party.
The project was organized by the Hanns Seidel Foundation Moldova in partnership with the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, modeled after Romania’s Youth Parliament.
