The EYP represents a non-partisan and independent educational project which is tailored specifically to the needs of the young European citizen. The EYP encourages independent thinking and socio-political initiative in young people and facilitates the learning of crucial social and professional skills. Since its inauguration, many tens of thousands of young people have taken part in regional, national and international sessions, formed friendships and made international contacts across and beyond borders. The EYP has thus made a vital contribution towards uniting Europe. Today the EYP is one of the largest European platforms for political debate, intercultural encounters, political educational work and the exchange of ideas among young people in Europe. The EYP consists of a network of 30+ European associations and organisations in which thousands of young people are active in a voluntary capacity. The Swedish National Committee of EYP counts its modern history from 2003, when the former National Committee merged with the alumni organisation. At this time the association took the form it still has today. EYP Sweden today has 5 regional committees and organises four regional, as well as one national session annually. These sessions bring together high-school students from over 30 schools all around the country to participate in debating and learn about crucial international and European issues. The official name is Europeiska Ungdomsparlamentet (EUP) Sverige.