From 5-7 May, young liberals from across Europe gathered in Budapest for the Spring Congress of LYMEC – European Liberal Youth, ALDE Party’s youth wing. During the event, delegates were honoured to hear from inspiring guest speakers such as Prime Minister of Luxembourg Xavier Bettel, Katalin Cseh MEP from ALDE Party member Momentum Mozgalom, ALDE Party Vice-President Daniel Berg, ALDE Party Vice-President Kira Rudik MP, who shared her views as a party leader and lawmaker in Ukraine, and ALDE Party Co-President Ilhan Kyuchyuk MEP.

In his remarks to the Congress, Kyuchyuk highlighted the importance of youth engagement for our European democracy, stating: “It's crucial for today's youth to never take our freedoms for granted. Keep in mind, democracy and freedom are a rare gift, not the norm.”

Our co-President @ilhankyuchyuk is today at @LYMEC congress to address Europe's liberal youth and encourage them to get engaged and involved ahead of #EP elections! 🇪🇺 pic.twitter.com/EearRTgMnJ

— ALDE Party (@ALDEParty) May 5, 2023

Delegates also adopted the LYMEC Manifesto ahead of the European elections in 2024, which sets out liberal solutions to problems that the European Union is currently facing. The Manifesto highlights measures to support Ukraine, foster free trade, defend democracy, tackle youth unemployment and much more. 

Moreover, the Congress debated on and adopted seven resolutions on topics such as stopping Russian imperialism in Eastern Europe, acting against healthcare associated infections and climate justice. A key discussion topic throughout the event was the European Year of Skills, and how liberal youth view this important initiative from the European Union. Finally, the organisation welcomed four new associate members from Denmark, Slovenia, Greece and Moldova, as well as one new full member from Slovakia.

It's a wrap! LYMEC Spring Congress of 2023 in Budapest, Hungary where young liberals from all over Europe gathered is over.

👏 We would like to thank @RenewEurope and @MTizenx for the support in arranging and the chairs for making sure the congress was running smoothly. pic.twitter.com/xI7Qq2w119

— LYMEC (@LYMEC) May 8, 2023