For two days, the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova hosted the 9th edition of the educational project “Youth Parliament,” with the participation of 51 young people from all regions of the country, TRIBUNA reports.

The participants stepped into the role of a Member of Parliament, taking part in both the drafting and presentation of legislative initiatives and the simulation of key parliamentary procedures: electing the President, forming factions, committees, and working bodies of the legislature.

On the first day, the youth worked in committees and factions, where they proposed, debated, and drafted legislative initiatives, which they presented the following day during the simulated plenary session.

This year’s edition featured debates on 8 draft laws, focused on:

• implementing healthy school nutrition based on local, natural, and unprocessed products;
• developing an extended educational program for primary school students, including academic, educational, and recreational activities until 5:00–6:00 PM;
• ensuring state-funded university places for Roma students;
• establishing “unity centers” for Moldovan citizens abroad;
• introducing tax incentives for start-ups;
• adding the term “family aggressor” to legislation and creating a reintegration program for victims of domestic violence;
• creating a guide and unified portal for small and medium-sized enterprises;
• amending the Law on Local Public Administration to implement Moldova’s administrative-territorial reform.

The plenary session was opened by the Secretary General of Parliament, Victor Agrici, who congratulated the youth for their involvement and expressed confidence that the experience and knowledge gained in Parliament would encourage them to remain civically engaged. “I wish you perseverance, energy, and dedication to your values,” said Victor Agrici.

Encouraging speeches were also delivered by MPs Olga Ursu (Parliamentary Faction “Alternativa”), Vasile Costiuc (“Democracy at Home”), Alexandr Berlinschii (“Our Party”), Olga Cebotari (“Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova”), and Dinu Plîngău (“Party of Action and Solidarity”).