Parliament Week is a significant opportunity to engage young people with the political process and inspire them to become active citizens. When MPs visit schools, they play a vital role in demystifying the workings of Parliament and the responsibilities of being an MP. These visits can have a profound impact on students, allowing them to understand the real-world implications of political decisions and the importance of participation in democracy.
As an MP, sharing your journey into politics can be particularly motivating for students. It personalizes the role of an MP, showing that politicians come from varied backgrounds and that a career in politics is accessible. Discussions about the contrast between duties in Parliament and constituency work can illustrate the breadth of an MP’s role and the balance between national legislation and local advocacy.
Addressing local versus national issues is another aspect that can resonate well with students. It can highlight the interconnectedness of different levels of governance and how decisions made at a national level can have local ramifications, and vice versa.
Debates on environmental and educational matters are particularly relevant to students, as these are issues that directly affect their futures. Engaging with young people on these topics not only informs MPs of the concerns and perspectives of the younger generation but also encourages students to think critically and articulate their views.
Parliament Week thus serves as a bridge between MPs and the younger generation, fostering a mutual learning experience that can shape both current policy considerations and the political landscape of the future.
