What is Youth Parliament?

Yheard. outh Parliament is a unique opportunity for young New Zealanders to learn first-hand about our democracy, influence government decision-making, and have their voices

Young people aged 16 to 18 years, from around New Zealand are chosen by their local (electorate or list) Member of

Parliament (MP) to be a Youth Member of Parliament (Youth MP). There is no set process for an MP to select their Youth MP.

Last year young New Zealanders from across Aotearoa New Zealand represented their communities as Youth Members of

Parliament, as members of the Youth Press

Gallery, or as the very first Youth Clerk of the

House of Representatives.

Held every three years, last year was the 10th New Zealand Youth Parliament, and 120 Youth MPs had the opportunity to advocate for their community and debate the issues that affected them and other youth, on a national platform. It was a chance for them to connect with the MP they represented, engage with peers, and work on self-initiated projects.

During the Youth Parliament event, they debated legislation, sat on select committees, and asked parliamentary questions of Ministers.

The Youth Press Gallery members reported on the activities of Youth MPs, and the debates, select committees, and bill during the Youth Parliament event. It was a chance to learn from some of New

Zealand’s best political journalists and learn about the important role the press gallery

plays.

The Youth Clerk of the House was at the heart of political decision making, providing advice to Youth MPs, and ensuring Youth

Parliament ran as it should for the rangatahi of Aotearoa New Zealand. Learning from the

Clerk himself, David Wilson, and witnessing the inner workings of Parliament.

Youth Parliament is run by the Office of the Clerk and the Ministry of Youth

Development – Te Manatū Whakahiato

Taiohi. Participants received training, support, and guidance along the way.

Source: https://www.parliament.nz/en/ get-involved/youth-parliament-2022/