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UK Youth Parliament looks set to be axed
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- The UK Youth Parliament, established in 2000 to engage young people in politics, faces potential closure as the UK government has not committed to future funding beyond March 2027.
- The Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) provided £453,000 in funding last year and about £2.4 million since 2017 but is considering replacing the program with a new scheme focused on under-represented groups.
- Supporters argue the parliament plays a crucial role in youth democracy and leadership development, while critics question its value for money and suggest voluntary funding instead of taxpayer money.
- A government review found the parliament meets its goals but has limited awareness among young people and some schools feel excluded, prompting plans for a redesigned youth engagement program.
- Former members and MPs emphasize the parliament’s importance in fostering political involvement and policy influence among youth, especially amid efforts to lower the voting age to 16.
