The European Liberal Youth (LYMEC), ALDE Party’s youth wing, gathered in Vienna last weekend for their Spring Congress, marking 50 years of young liberals shaping Europe’s political future.
At a time of growing geopolitical pressure and democratic strain, the Congress signaled renewed liberal momentum. This electoral Congress took place on the same week as the European Liberal Forum’s General Assembly.
Liberals highlighted how Europe can adapt and thrive in the years ahead, with a clear emphasis on the skills needed by 2035. For LYMEC, that means equipping young people with strong digital and AI literacy to unlock Europe’s full talent potential and remain competitive going forward
Passing six resolutions, the liberal youth adopted fresh policies, from space and security to Greenland’s future safety. The Congress also welcomed new members NOVA from Italy and Democratic Youth of Kosovo.
Delegates elected Maarten Porte (D66, NL), a member of De Jonge Democraten, as the new LYMEC President. A newly mandated Bureau was also confirmed, with full details available here.
ALDE Party President Svenja Hahn MEP gave a memorable speech to the young liberals, remarking on her time as LYMEC President and her journey through the political sphere. She commented on the power and relevance of young liberal leaders in the current climate:
“Having had the privilege to serve as President of LYMEC from 2018 to 2020, and now as President of the ALDE Party, I have seen firsthand how generations of young liberals have stepped up in defining moments. And this is such a moment. Across the world, authoritarian powers are rising, global rules are being challenged, and the foundations of our liberal democracies are under pressure.
For too long, Europe has been complacent, outsourcing its security, depending on others for energy and assuming that peace and prosperity were permanent. But I firmly believe in another path, a confident, united, liberal Europe that shapes its own destiny. And LYMEC must be at the heart of building that future.”
Fifty years on, LYMEC is no longer just a youth movement - it is a launchpad for Europe’s next generation of liberal leadership. Last weekend’s Congress showcased the importance of empowering our young leaders to secure a better tomorrow.