Earlier this May, I had the honour of attending the Festival of Europe in Scotland in Edinburgh, proudly representing the Young European Movement (YEM) Scotland as Chairwoman, alongside our President, Cecilia, who joined us from YEM’s National Executive Committee and the European Parliament Delegation to the United Kingdom.

This year’s Festival brought together a rich blend of discussions, music, workshops, and culture from across the continent, right here in the heart of Scotland. Across the weekend, we explored what the future holds for Europe, Scotland, and young people like us who still believe in a shared European destiny.

Democracy, Rights, and Rebuilding Connections

We began the weekend on Europe Day, with a powerful Citizens' Rights conference hosted by the Citizens Rights Project. EU citizens in Scotland shared their experiences post-Brexit, highlighting the urgent need to uphold and extend protections for those who now call Scotland home.

The following day, we participated in the Conference on the Future of European Democracy, where we discussed the worrying rise of the far right and how youth-led, citizen-powered movements can push back against democratic backsliding. These conversations are vital, especially with the upcoming EU elections and growing tensions across Europe.

In the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to Scotland’s relationship with the EU, where expert panels examined the progress made since the UK-EU 'reset'. We heard inspiring arguments for why deeper cooperation, or hopefully even re-accession, must remain firmly on the table, especially for countries like Scotland that never voted to leave.

A Shared European Economy

Sunday’s events were no less exciting. The seminar on Europe’s economic future took a close look at the Draghi and Letta reports, unpacking how competitiveness and social inclusion can coexist. We explored how Scotland, even from outside the EU, can remain aligned with sustainable industrial and digital policies.

Later in the day, the “Beyond Brexit” and “Beyond the UK, Beyond the EU” sessions opened a broader conversation on where Scotland fits in a world of shifting powers. We were reminded that building international solidarity, with the EU, but also with the global majority, is more crucial than ever.

Culture, Music, and Art: Our Shared Identity

One of the most touching moments of the festival was hearing personal stories from Polish communities living in Scotland through the screening of City of Freedom and Folktales for New Scots. These beautiful pieces reminded us that being European is not just about treaties or trade, it’s about identity, culture, and belonging.

I was deeply moved by the screening of 7 Symptoms of Belaruskast at the Festival of Europe. The film offers a haunting and powerful portrayal of life under dictatorship in Belarus, capturing the emotional and psychological toll of repression with raw honesty. It was a stark reminder of why our fight for democracy and human rights must extend beyond borders. I urge everyone to take the time to watch this important documentary and stand in solidarity with those resisting authoritarianism: https://youtu.be/mZAvwmEYZpQ?si=2Rxj0MhSVBI4Blqr. 

Why This Matters

The Festival of Europe reminded us all that Scotland’s place in Europe is still very much alive. It lives in our values, our communities, and our ambitions. From speaking to attendees, artists, and fellow young campaigners, it’s clear: we haven’t given up - and we won’t.

Thank you to everyone who made this festival possible, especially the volunteers, organisers, and speakers who continue to bring European solidarity to life in Scotland.

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