Even the Model European Parliament was forced to undergo a rapid process of digitalization. This is mostly due to the pandemic and the resulting travel restrictions. Normally we would have travelled to Austria’s capital, Vienna, and engrossed ourselves in deep political debates. Thus, virtual meetings held in childhood bedrooms promptly replaced official government buildings as the usual locations of MEP sessions.

The Model European Parliament is a simulation in which students from all over Europe come together in their pursuit of finding solutions to real problems the European Union has to deal with. The topics range from nuclear disarmament to women’s rights and gender equality. As a delegate in the MEP you will be asked to represent your country and work on finding solutions in your respective committees. The committee on FEMM, for example, mostly deals with gender-related problems.

Furthermore, you will be wearing formal attire and the language of communication is English. This is your chance to showcase your command of the English language, drastically improve your skills and challenge yourself.

Moreover, resolutions created in a national, interregional, or international session will be forwarded to EU institutions. Rest assured your hard work and dedication in MEP won´t be for naught and officials will actually look at your solutions. Your work might actually reach EU officials and influence European politics for the better in the future.

Even more so you will benefit from meeting young and politically active students from all over Europe and exchange ideas. In the end you might even leave an MEP session with a bunch of new acquaintances or even future friends. Speeches are also a part of the MEP experience and can prepare you for your academic or professional future. Holding a speech in front of more than 100 delegates and distinguished guests will be ingrained as a frightening yet copiously rewarding memory.

Participating in an MEP session endows you with an increased proficiency in debating and unforgettable memories. So, if anyone is interested after this article, join next year´s MEP course and you might be able to participate in a national or international session. We will be leading the course and make sure to tailor it to your needs in order to prepare you for your MEP session.

Jana Trattner and Manuel Ganja Tejera, 6A – 2020/21