Full Solidarity with President Zelensky and the Ukrainian People

We stand in full solidarity with President Volodymyr Zelensky and the brave people of Ukraine in the face of the clumsy attempt at humiliation at the White House. This misguided manoeuvre is not just an affront to Ukraine’s leadership but an insult to the countless young heroes who have fought and sacrificed to defend their freedom and the fundamental values of the West—values that, sadly, seem to have lost their place in the Oval Office.

What we witnessed was not diplomatic strength but populist weakness masquerading as power. Bullying is not strategy; it is a failure of leadership. The European Union must not fall into the trap of such short-sighted games.

Our unwavering support goes to our Ukrainian peers—young women and men who have stood resilient in the name of democracy and sovereignty. We look forward to working alongside them in the near future, within a stronger, greater, and more authoritative European Union—one that proudly welcomes Ukrainian heroes into their rightful home.

If this war has proven anything, it is that Europe must be strong. Our security, values, and future cannot be left at the mercy of others. The European Union must stand united, act decisively, and embrace its role as a true geopolitical power. A stronger Europe is not just an option—it is a necessity. Only through unity and resolve can we defend democracy, support our allies, and shape the future we believe in.

We, the Young Democrats for Europe, express our full support and solidarity with the students in Serbia who have taken a principled stand against corruption and are advocating for transparency, the rule of law, and the fundamental values of European democracy. Your determination and courage resonate with young people across the continent who share the vision of a future free from injustice and impunity.

The fight against corruption is central to building a society where public institutions serve the people with honesty, integrity, and accountability transparency. The students of Serbia are shining a light on the urgent need to confront systemic corruption, ensure the independence of democratic institutions, and guarantee equal rights and opportunities for all.

As young Europeans, we recognize that corruption undermines trust in governance, erodes the rule of law, and hinders progress toward a just and equitable society. We commend the students for their leadership in demanding real change and reminding us all that a functioning democracy requires vigilance, civic participation, and a refusal to accept the status quo.

We are united in our belief that no government should operate without scrutiny, no institution should act above the law, and no voice calling for justice should be silenced.

To the students and youth in Serbia: we stand with you. Your vision for a transparent, fair, and democratic society is one that we share. Your hope is our fuel in fighting for our common values. Together, we can build a Europe where corruption has no place, and democracy thrives for future generations.

In solidarity,
Young Democrats for Europe

A New Chapter for France and Europe

It is with great joy and deep pride that we welcome the appointment of François Bayrou, President
of the European Democratic Party, as Prime Minister of the French Republic. His humanist vision,
commitment to Europe, and ability to unite make him a thoughtful and compelling choice to lead
the government of a country at the heart of the European Union.
In a Europe facing immense political, social, and environmental challenges, François Bayrou
embodies the values of responsibility, nuance, and dialogue. As Young Democrats for Europe, we
extend our best wishes for success to Prime Minister François Bayrou. We remain committed
alongside those who, like him, work for the common good rather than personal interests.

“François Bayrou’s appointment to Matignon is a powerful symbol and a source of hope for
a France in need of political stability and a clear direction. He has consistently upheld his
profound belief in a European, democratic, and humanist vision. This vision we share and
hold within the Young Democrats for Europe offers a clear response to the turmoil caused
by extremist forces. Uniting will not be easy, but Center is the solution.”

Alice Bernard-Montini, President of the Young Democrats for Europe

6/12/2024, Brussels

On Friday, December 6, 2024, Autoworld Brussels became the epicenter of dialogue, innovation, and collaboration as leaders and delegates gathered for the European Democratic Party Congress.

Our new president, Alice Bernard-Montini, delivered an inspiring speech about the vision and mission of the Young Democrats for Europe (YDE) during the 2024 EDP Congress. She highlighted the pivotal role of youth in driving positive change and shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and democratic Europe. Her leadership sets a strong foundation for the future of our organization as we continue to champion centrist values.

In a time of increasing polarization, centrist values offer pragmatic, inclusive, and sustainable solutions to Europe’s challenges. The Congress emphasized the importance of bridging divides, fostering dialogue, and promoting a vision of democracy that works for all. As centrists, we believe the answer lies in collaboration, not extremes—building a Europe rooted in balance, fairness, and progress. The Centre is the answer!

Understanding the Gender Pay Gap

The gender pay gap is a complex issue that extends beyond simple pay discrimination, reflecting a broader array of inequalities women face in accessing work, advancing in their careers, and receiving appropriate rewards.

In the European Union, the gender pay gap stands at 12.7% and has changed minimally over the past decade. This gap translates to a difference of approximately one and a half months’ worth of salary per year. Despite gradual narrowing over the years, progress remains slow, and the economic disadvantages experienced by women continue to accumulate. This gap affects not only individual women but also families and communities, perpetuating wider economic disparities.

For us, the principle is simple: Equal work should always mean equal pay. To truly tackle the gender pay gap, we need to address and correct the deep-seated imbalances in our society.

Steps Towards Fair Pay and Equality

Transparent pay practices, equal opportunities, and supportive workplace policies are essential to bridge this gap. Employers and policymakers must work together to implement effective solutions.

Educating ourselves about this problem and advocating for fair pay can drive meaningful change. Support policies and practices that promote equality and join the conversation to make a difference.

EDP Manifesto: A Comprehensive Vision for the Future

The EDP manifesto reflects the commitment of European Democrats to addressing key political and social challenges. This document is designed to be both informative and actionable, allowing readers to engage with ideas and understand guiding philosophy behind our actions.

Over 300 proposals were meticulously selected through a thorough process involving analysis, review, and prioritization by dedicated working groups. These proposals are organized into four overarching chapters:

• Convergence and Strengthening
• Global Renaissance
• Plural Harmony
• Vibrant Regions

This manifesto represents a call to action, providing a clear framework for addressing contemporary challenges and fostering progress across multiple domains.

It is designed not just to inspire, but to guide meaningful policy changes. Its comprehensive scope, rigorous development process, and commitment to practical outcomes make it a manifesto that stands above others in both vision and execution. If you want to know more, click here and read the full version.

WHAT IS YELL SUMMIT?

This dynamic platform is designed to create a vibrant forum for young liberal democrat politicians at the local and regional levels to convene, engage in meaningful interactions, and exchange innovative ideas and exemplary practices.

This two-day event promises to be rich in information and networking opportunities, culminating in a high-level summit among the participants. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered for selected participants on a first-come, first-served basis, up to a certain limit.

The 2024 Summit of Young Elected Local and Regional Leaders will be held in Brussels at the European Committee of the Regions on September 12-13.

WHO CAN APPLY?

Young (18-35) local and regional politicians with an elected mandate and having a responsibility either in government or in opposition and who belong to the Renew Europe caucus youth movements are encouraged to apply.

The project is aimed at local and regional politicians who have leadership experience, therefore it is important to indicate in the application form what other leadership positions you have in addition to the one you were elected. 

APPLY BEFORE FRIDAY, 12 JUNE 2024!

REGISTER HERE!

Join Renew Europe NOW, an amazing opportunity for young activists to engage in the European elections.
The communication team of Renew Europe Now (composed of ALDE, the European Democratic Party and Renaissance) is looking for young people across Europe who are pro-European, motivated, social media savvy and close to our values and policies to engage them in a communication campaign ahead of the upcoming European elections.

Young people will be offered two days of online technical and political training on May 5^th and 6^th and will be asked to produce, during the month of May and up to a few days before the vote, one or more videos in their native language (or English) and with the specified content and technical characteristics.

The videos will be post-produced by our communications team and disseminated daily and advertised on the social channels of our political parties.

To join our team, please send an email to youth@reneweuropenow.eu before the 30^th of April attaching a letter of motivation, your CV, a sample raw video of maximum 30 seconds entitled “Why I am a pro-European” and the link to your social media profiles.