Flemish parliament organises election festival to engage young voters
The Flemish Parliament will host an election festival to engage the half a million young people in Flanders who will vote for the first time in the European, federal and regional elections on 9 June. The Kiesfestival on 19 April is a collaboration with VRT's nws.nws.nws and youth organisation De Ambrassade.
Teenagers can vote in the European elections from the age of 16, and in the federal and regional elections from 18. The festival aims to provide them with comprehensive information, addressing questions such as how elections work, the significance of voting and the values represented by the elections.
"Today's young people are tomorrow's leaders," said parliament speaker Liesbeth Homans, of the Flemish nationalist party N-VA. "Today, however, we see that young people are increasingly turning their backs on democracy, or at least questioning it. It's crucial to get them excited about our parliamentary democracy right from their first vote. The Kiesfestival provides the perfect opportunity for this."
© Vlaams Parlement
On 19 April, the parliament will be dedicated to election-related activities. Young participants can take voting tests, engage in speed date-style meetings with MPs, acquaint themselves with a voting booth or take part in an electoral quiz.
There will be discussions on subjects including the role of politics in their lives, polarisation and the impact of social media. Throughout the day, various political groups will be answering visitors’ questions at information stands.
The festival will feature music by MNM DJs Nina Black, Ninette, and Masai, with a closing set by Because It Can Soundsystem ft Average Rob.
The complete programme is available on the parliament's website. All activities are free but registration is required.
#FlandersNewsService | © PHOTO KENZO TRIBOUILLARD / AFP
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