The EYP is a politically independent educational project tailored specifically to the needs of young European citizens. The EYP encourages independent thinking and socio-political initiative in young people and facilitates the learning of crucial social and professional skills. The way it works, is unique: every year more than 35.000 young people from 40 different European countries meet at one of more than 600 regional, national and international events. Over the past twenty years the organisation has become one of Europe’s largest platforms for political debate, intercultural encounters, political educational work and the exchange of ideas among young Europeans. The EYP grew from a small school project in 1987 in Fontainebleau, France. An important characteristic of the EYP is that our participants defend their own views and not those of a particular political party or a country. The EYP covers topical issues and does not avoid controversial topics. Through our conferences we encourage independent thinking and personal development. With its presence in 40 different European countries, the EYP is more easily accessible than any other European project. Schools from all over Europe submit their candidacy to their National Committees and can thus participate in the national rounds and try to get selected for an international session. International friendships boasting mutual understanding of different cultures and points of view is an integral part of the EYP.