Since 2017, SYP has been working in partnership with the Scottish Parliament to increase young people’s representation and involvement in the Scottish Parliament’s work. Through our formal partnership agreement, which was first signed in 2018 and was renewed in 2021, we work together to build positive relationships between our staff teams, and to support MSYPs and MSPs to effectively ensure the views of Scotland’s young people are heard in the Parliament.
As part of this partnership, the Scottish Parliament has committed to hosting a Scottish Youth Parliament Sitting in each SYP membership. In this blog, MSYPs Ellie, Nazarii, Ife, and Arianna share their experiences of SYP’s 82nd National Sitting and 25th Anniversary Parliamentary Reception, which took place in the Scottish Parliament between 31st October and 2nd November 2024.
“This year marks the 25th Anniversary of both the Scottish Youth Parliament and the Scottish Parliament. We had an amazing time celebrating at this year’s Sitting in Holyrood. Sittings are a time for MSYPs to come together, have fun, and most importantly make change. Every massive campaign win we have had as an organisation has started as a policy made at an SYP Sitting in some way. From votes at 16, equal marriage, free bus travel for under 22s, to UNCRC incorporation into Scots law. It is the hard work of MSYPs from across Scotland who have been at the heart of making Scotland a better place for young people to grow up.” – Ellie Craig MSYP, SYP Chair, Glasgow Cathcart
What was the best thing about the Sitting in Parliament?
“It was an incredible experience taking part in this Sitting. As a member of the Equality and Human Rights Committee, we focused on the challenges related to school meals and food health education, and I was also part of a group concentrating on youth work. I met so many inspiring people in just a few days, and it was an amazing opportunity to be able to give a speech at the closing ceremony.” – Arianna Gagnon MSYP, Clydebank and Milngavie
“The best part of the Sitting was connecting with other young leaders who share a commitment to making a difference. The debates, workshops, and conversations were full of energy – It reminded me how much power we have when we come together to advocate for change. It was also great to meet various MSPs and discuss upcoming plans; engaging with them directly allowed us to bridge the gap between young people and decision-makers. It was really exciting to see them listen to our ideas, take our concerns seriously, and value what we had to say.” – Ife Odemosu MSUP, Edinburgh Eastern
“It felt amazing to speak in front of all the MSYPs and key individuals in the Scottish Parliament. I remember back in 2022 when I left Ukraine and arrived in Scotland; one of the first places I visited was the Scottish Parliament. I could never have imagined that I would be able to give a speech in the Debating Chamber, but here I am, speaking about Edinburgh’s local perspective. It’s incredible, and I’m proud to be a part of the Scottish Youth Parliament.” – Nazarii Lialiuk MSYP, Edinburgh Eastern
Why is it important for young people to be represented in this way at the Scottish Parliament?
“Representation ensures that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of a wide range of demographics. For young people, it’s particularly important, as we bring the fresh perspectives that are necessary for tackling current-day challenges. Despite this, there are an increasing number of barriers to amplifying youth voice, which can feel discouraging at times. Having a platform like this sends a clear message: our voices matter, and we are key part in Scotland’s progress.” – Ife Odemosu MSYP, Edinburgh Eastern
“The opportunity for young people to work closely with the Scottish Parliament is significant. It helps them understand that legislation and policies are not created behind “closed doors,” but rather through the perspectives and opinions of Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs), who represent young people across Scotland. This ensures that the views of all young people are heard and that their voices matter… I’ve learned how important it is to communicate and engage with politicians to improve our lives.” – Nazarii Lialiuk MSYP, Edinburgh Eastern
“Politics is not very accessible to young people, and I hope that by us sitting in the debating chamber it shows other young people across Scotland that this is our parliament too and that they feel empowered to get their voices heard in democracy. I was in awe of every single MSYPs as they passionately championed the voice of their constituents throughout the sitting, and I am even more excited to see what comes next as they go back into their communities.” – Ellie Craig MSYP, SYP Chair, Glasgow Cathcart
Find out about the policy MSYPs created at this Sitting on our policy log.
