DISCUSS Project: National Youth Debate in Alkmaar

As the DISCUSS project neared its conclusion, students in Alkmaar took the lead in organizing a youth-led debate event at Petrus Canisius College on November 26, 2024. Originally planned as a national event, the interest in Alkmaar was significantly higher than elsewhere, so the event was expanded locally, maintaining its national focus by engaging students in discussions on green policies and youth participation in decision-making.

Unlike a traditional debate tournament, this event followed a peer-led, deliberative debate model. Senior students took on leadership roles, guiding younger peers in debate preparation and structured discussions. The morning sessions focused on argumentation techniques, critical thinking, and public speaking, with an emphasis on environmental issues and sustainable solutions. Instead of just competing, students worked together to analyze different perspectives, challenge assumptions, and refine their reasoning.

In the afternoon, participants engaged in structured debates on national green policies, applying their newly developed skills to real-world challenges. A key moment of the event was the plenary session with local politicians, where students had the opportunity to ask questions, challenge policies, and discuss their own ideas for a sustainable future. The presence of policymakers ensured that youth perspectives were directly heard in a policy-focused setting, reinforcing the project's goal of bridging the gap between young people and decision-makers.

The National Youth Debate in Alkmaar was a powerful demonstration of how peer-led initiatives can foster civic engagement. While fewer students from outside Alkmaar attended than initially planned, the event still maintained its national impact by addressing policy discussions relevant across the country. Students gained confidence, improved their debating and public speaking skills, and saw firsthand how their voices can contribute to shaping environmental policies. This event highlighted the strength of youth-led discussions and reaffirmed the DISCUSS project’s mission to empower young people in democratic participation.