Through initiatives led by academia and the government, in classrooms and lecture halls, we are raising awareness, building knowledge, fostering dialogue, encouraging civic participation, and cultivating a sense of shared responsibility for the future of our Union.
Engaging our youth
The Government of the Republic of Cyprus has launched a series of initiatives to connect with, engage and involve young people in the journey of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU.
These include thematic dialogues with students at pre-primary, primary, and secondary schools, as well as universities across Cyprus.
These dialogues are led by the Minister of Education, Sports and Youth, and the Deputy Minister for European Affairs.
There are also a variety of creative events and competitions. Among them are:
- A graphic design competition on climate change, one of our Presidency’s themes.
- A children’s Presidency logo contest.
- An artefacts design contest to decorate the “Filoxenia Conference Center”, the venue that will host the high-level meetings of our Presidency.
- A song contest inspired by European ideals and values.
- A Presidency gift design contest.
- A series of student exhibitions and other events across Cyprus.
Marilena Raouna, Cyprus Deputy Minister for European Affairs says, "Throughout this inspiring Presidency journey, I have had the privilege of meeting young people from every corner of our country, from primary school pupils to university students. What inspires me the most is their dedication to European ideals and values, to our common home. Their vision, curiosity, and courage to dream big embody the very best of who we are. Their integrity, passion, and idealism fill me with pride, hope, and deep optimism for the future."
"Their vision, curiosity, and courage to dream big embody the very best of who we are. Their integrity, passion, and idealism fill me with pride, hope, and deep optimism for the future."
In partnership with universities and volunteer organisations across Cyprus, over 80 young volunteers have been selected to serve as liaison officers during the Presidency. Universities in Cyprus have also introduced special scholarships to mark the Cyprus Presidency and demonstrate their commitment to empowering and supporting young people.
On Europe Day 2025, the event “Your Europe. Your Future. A Dialogue with Youth” brought together the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, and the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, for an engaging discussion with Cyprus youth. The discussion reaffirmed the Cyprus Presidency’s strong commitment to listening to young people’s views and including their perspectives in shaping Europe’s future.
As part of shaping our Presidency’s six-month programme, consultations with youth organisations ensured that young people’s voices were heard on issues that matter to them:
From the European Youth Strategy and education, to skills, mobility, and youth-friendly policies that build trust and connection between Europe and its youth. Recognising the central role of youth, young people participated in the interactive presentation of our Presidency’s priorities and the official logo reveal by President Christodoulides on 21 December 2025.
Marilena Raouna, Cyprus Deputy Minister for European Affairs, with high school students
Empowering youth through policy
Young people represent a quarter of Europe's population. The European Union has long been committed to investing in their potential, recognising that Europe’s future depends on them.
Under President Christodoulides’ leadership, the Government of the Republic of Cyprus places young people and their empowerment at the epicentre of its national policies.
In a landmark reform, the Government lowered the voting age from 18 to 17. As President Christodoulides noted, this is “a historic day for democracy in Cyprus”. This reform strengthens participatory democracy, giving young people a stronger voice in political life at both the national and European levels.
To enhance civic engagement, the Government has also launched the ekfracy platform, which gives young people a direct voice on social and policy issues, including topics that are central to our Presidency of the Council of the EU, such as housing, and youth mental health.
As of 2024, civic education and skills development have also been incorporated into school curricula, equipping young people with the tools to participate meaningfully in democracy, both nationally, and as active European citizens.