Young people are not only the future of Latvia and Europe - they are also active citizens, and today’s decisions shape their opportunities and well‑being. This EU Local Dialogue, organised by Karina Mikelsone (LV/Renew) in Ādaži (Ādažu novads, LV-2163, Latvia), held on Europe Day, aims to strengthen young people’s understanding of the role of the European Union and encourage their active engagement in civic and societal processes at both local and European levels.
The event will bring together representatives from the European Commission, the European Parliament, and the European Committee of the Regions in Latvia. Participants will share their professional experience, take part in a panel discussion, answer questions from young people, and engage in debates on the relevance and impact of the European Union on the lives of European and Latvian citizens.
A particular focus of the event will be on the role of young people in shaping the future of Europe. Together with the speakers, participants will explore how decisions taken at the European level affect everyday life in Latvia, as well as the opportunities and responsibilities of the younger generation in building a sustainable, democratic, and secure Europe.
The programme will include a panel discussion followed by an interactive “question hackathon”. During this session, young participants will work with current EU-related topics, including political cartoons, to formulate questions and initiate discussions with the invited experts, thereby fostering critical thinking and civic participation.
A distinctive highlight of the event is the unique opportunity, in the spirit of Europe Day, to meet local patriots—individuals who maintain a strong connection to Ādaži while playing significant roles at the European level. Among the speakers will be local representatives Valdis Dombrovskis, European Commissioner, and Karīna Mikelsone, Member of the European Committee of the Regions. The discussion will also feature Reinis Pozņaks, who will contribute his perspective on civic engagement and the importance of individual initiative in contemporary Europe.
This event offers a rare opportunity for young people to meet inspiring individuals from their own community who demonstrate that it is possible to grow from a local environment into influential positions within European institutions, while maintaining a strong sense of belonging. Such examples encourage young people to think globally and act locally.
The event “Be Global, Act Local” provides young people not only with knowledge about the functioning of the European Union but also with an opportunity to actively participate in shaping discussions about a future built in their interest and with their involvement.