In June, I had the honour of joining thousands of young people from across Europe at the European Youth Event (EYE2025) in Strasbourg, where we gathered in and around the European Parliament to shape our shared vision for the future of Europe. As Chairwoman of Young European Movement Scotland, I was proud to represent young Scots and ensure our voices were heard. We are passionate, hopeful, and firmly committed to a European future.

The energy in Strasbourg was incredible. From climate justice and democracy to digital rights, disinformation and youth participation, the conversations were rich, urgent, and driven by a deep sense of solidarity. Youth delegates came from across the continent, diverse in background, but united in purpose: to build a fairer, greener, and more democratic Europe that truly works for everyone.

Among the most powerful moments was the musical performance by Madeleina Kay, YEM UK’s Youth Engagement Officer. Through her moving songs, she captured the heartbreak of losing her European identity and the political and emotional cost of Brexit for our generation. Her performances were more than entertainment, they were protest, storytelling, and healing all at once. She reminded us that activism comes in many forms, and that art can powerfully express the feelings politics often fails to capture.

We also want to give a special shout-out to the Cara McLaughlin from the Scottish Advisory Forum who took part in the panel on EU–UK relations. She made sure the Vice President of the European Parliament was crystal clear: young people in Scotland never voted to leave. Her words echoed in the chamber and were met with applause, a reminder that Scotland’s European voice has not been silenced, only sidelined. And we’re not going anywhere.

As always, these conversations didn’t just happen on panels or in workshops. Some of the most meaningful connections were forged informally. Young people from Ireland, Finland, Hungary, Germany and beyond, sitting side-by-side with young Scots, sharing hopes, fears, and bold visions for the future. These moments prove that Europe is not just an institution, it's a community, a network of solidarity, and a living, breathing project of peace and cooperation.

Even though the UK is no longer part of the European Union, the European identity of young Scots has never faded. We are European not just by geography, but by values and that’s something no referendum result can erase.

We return home with new friends, new ideas, and renewed determination. Events like EYE2025 strengthen our resolve to keep fighting for a European future, one that is open, inclusive, and truly united in diversity.

For a European future United In Diversity,
Amelia Connolly
Chairwoman
Young European Movement in Scotland