What is a session

The European Youth Parliament is an international movement, with enthusiastic youngsters and teachers in more than 35 countries. In all these countries, there are a variety of activities going on, most of them organised in sessions. To give you an insight of what you may expect at a Norwegian national session or an international session, here’s a short introduction: 


 

 


Every session starts with a teambuilding; at a Norwegian national session, this is conducted during the first day, whilst three days are set for these activities at an international session. It is an informal activity, happening both indoors and outdoors. The delegates are divided into committees; at our national sessions, the committees consist of two delegates from seven different schools, whilst internationally each participant is the only person from his or her country. 

Two experienced chairperson (meaning a young person involved in the organisation) guides the committee through various exercises in order to turn a group of individuals into a team. Though it might seem like random and unnecessary games, there is an important plan behind it as the group moves from ice-breaking to complicated problem-solving. We have a variety of games, developed by professionals, and through 23 years of experience, in order to get the group ready for the further challenges of the session. And it is a lot of fun! If you are a teacher, do not worry; you will play-a-long as well. 


 

 

 


The committee work is the most European activity you could possibly imagine, as it is entirely built on cooperation and consensus from its members. The delegates have on forehand been given a committee topic about a regional, European, global or moral issue which they have prepared and analysed before arriving at the session. Guided by the chairpersons, they go through an intense workshop including brainstorming, debating and finalising. The purpose is to produce a resolution that is a political statement often used in international organisations. There are often many disagreements to overcome, and the task often seems unsolvable; yet by compromising, a common ground is always found. 



 

 

At the General Assembly, all participants are gathered, and the committee proposes its resolution. Others are invited to attack it, there is an open debate, and at last the assembly casts its votes. It follows a strict parliamentary procedure, enforced by the board of the session. The activity is formal, and parliamentary language is to be used. These are usually conducted in an appropriate venue. At the Norwegian national sessions, the norm is to hold the General Assembly in a city hall or auditorium; at international sessions, they often use the parliamentary building in the respective country, such as the Bundestag in Berlin and Riksdagen in Stockholm . This is the place you really get use of your debating skills!

 

 

 

Like any parliamentary session, there are formal ceremonies to mark the opening and the closing of the event. During the opening ceremony, politicians, distinguished guests and the volunteers who have made the session happen get the chance to address the assembly in order to broaden everyone’s perspectives. The European Anthem “Ode to Joy” fills the room. The session is properly closed by John Lennon’s “Imagine”, expressing our wishes for a better world…. 



 

 

If this sounded awkward and frightening, do not worry; socialising and evening events are strong and important elements of a session. This is a programme for and by young people, and is supposed to be a fun experience for its participants. At international sessions, there is “Eurovillage” – an evening where every country gets the chance to show its food, beverages and particularities, we hold “Euroconcert” where the talented musicians of the session are displayed, and there are of course numerous parties. At national sessions, there will of course as well be time to socialise during evenings.  For instance the “Norwegian Village” where the school delegations brings specialities from their area.

 

 

Every session, both national and international, hands out a daily newspaper. Here, you will find the latest gossip, a broad coverage of all events, and enlightening articles. It is usually of high quality, and contributes to hold spirits up through tough discussions. Do keep it after the session, as it is an excellent way of remembering your EYP experience.

 

We hope this short introduction has given you a small insight into our world, and made you look forward to your event. Hopefully, you will return to your home with a lot of insight in contemporary politics, improved language skills, new perspectives, and many new friends. Imagine thousands of Europeans coming together to share their different dreams for the future; it is a truly unique feeling which will continue to change many lives.