As part of the “Changemakers for European Democracy” project, Active Zone Outdoor organized a public debate aimed at direct interaction and communication between the public and European Parliament candidates with the aim of increasing the participation of young people in the upcoming elections.
The debate was attended by European Parliament candidates from the political forces of the democratic arch who had the opportunity to highlight the importance and significance of voting in the European elections by answering questions that were asked by the public. Through the event, which was not coloured by political parties in order to avoid direct, personal promotion of the candidates, we discussed, among other issues, the necessity of strengthening and broadening the participation of citizens, the importance of the actions of Cypriot MEPs in the European Parliament, the key role of the European Parliament in policy-making at European and national level, the structure and functioning of the European institutions, the benefits of Cyprus from the participation in the European family and the factors that influence the low participation of youth in the European elections.
As an NGO that focuses on promoting outdoor alternative activities, the discussion took place in the outdoor area of the wooden pier, opposite Larnaca Castle. The choice of the aforementioned spatial arrangement was made with a view to the opportunity it will provide to the candidates to engage in meaningful communication with a wide and varied audience. Although the discussion was moderated by the Executive Director of the organization, questions were asked from the audience in an effort to give voice to the citizens to express their needs, concerns and thoughts.
