About the Commonwealth Youth Parliament
Learn about the Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP), who attended and what the annual conference which took place in Jersey in 2018 was all about
The Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP) is made up of young people aged 18-29 and provides an opportunity from young people from across the Commonwealth to get together to learn about how politics and parliamentary processes work.
This year, the ninth Annual Commonwealth Youth Parliament Conference took place in Jersey following the cancellation of the event in the British Virgin Islands in October 2017. This was due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma and we extend our thoughts and best wishes to everyone affected by the destruction both in the British Virgin Islands and elsewhere. The Jersey branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) was asked to assist and was delighted to be able to help by hosting the event.
The CYP programme is designed to demonstrate to potential future young parliamentarians the fundamentals behind the processes of Parliament in key institutions which underpin democracy and good governance. In addition, it gives attendees a hugely valuable networking opportunity with other participants from across the Commonwealth, as well as with current young Members of Parliament who act as mentors throughout the week.
As a result, participants have a unique opportunity to develop leadership and experience and to be empowered to make a positive difference in shaping the future of their own communities. We welcome delegates from all around the globe, from British Columbia to Nieu – a small island nation in the South Pacific Ocean.
With 60% of the Commonwealth's population aged under 30, the CYP is one of the key programmes organised by the CPA and responds to the needs of its young constituents. The CPA recognises that young people have a proven capability to lead change, and are a vital and valuable investment for now and the future.