The world is in need of political leadership. This was the message of DEMYC summer school in Helsinki, Finland.  On 24-28 August, the event brought together representatives of youth parties from several European countries.

Europe is going through difficult times, and it is calling for change.  Only the young generation, young politicians participating in the summer school is in position to bring this change to life.  As many as 30 participants from Romania, Portugal, Finland, Serbia, Spain, Italy, Poland, Lebanon, Georgia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia and Ukraine had a chance to meet prominent Finnish politicians, civic activists, as well as feel the real spirit of Finland.

The delegates paid a visit to the Parliament of Finland, held meetings with government officials, and went to one of the largest nuclear power plants in the world.  In addition, the Secretary General of organization was appointed at the school, and LFSA organization (Lebanon) obtained full membership.  An important step was indicated by adoption of resilution on Ukraine condemning corrupt judicial system and human rights violations, as well as accusing the government of political motives behing Tymoshenko’s arest.

Meanwhile, the cultural program was of no less importance.  Delegates were able to see for themselves that Finland is the country of islands, the sea and woods.  Walks and bus tours of the capital, endless stories about the city’s history and landmarks, excursions, a visit to Turku, the European Capital of Culture 2011, meeting with the city mayor, authentic Finnish sauna, and unforgettable days in the cottage by the Baltic Sea – the list of memories goes on and on.  Participants had an opportunity to introduce their country’s traditions and cousine, as everyone prepared a national meal and drinks, as well as presented a song in their language.  All delegates will remember “Lenta za lentoyu” for a long time.

Final evening was marked by traditional August crawfish party, with an interesting requirement – for everyone to have something red in their outfit.

Once again, summer school gathered young leaders of Europe, and the future belongs to them.