Young Tirsenses represent Portugal in the European Parliament in Strasbourg
“Rafaela Paulo Teixeira and Ricardo Cerqueira are from Santo Tirso and were selected to participate in the fifth edition of the European Youth Event (EYE2023) right in the heart of European democracy: the European Parliament in Strasbourg. This event took place between the 9th and 10th of June and brought together young people from all over the European Union and the world to share and shape their ideas about the future of Europe. During the event, young people participated in co-created activities with institutions, international organizations, civil society and youth organizations, providing a space for discussions and networking. This was a unique opportunity for them to interact, inspire each other and exchange their views.
In light of the European and global context and ahead of the 2024 European elections, Rafaela and Ricardo wrote two proposals for directives on topics of extreme public relevance, of which were part of a document with Proposals for European Directives resulting from the meeting of a Portuguese group who organized a series of round tables with members of the European parliament and members of civil society to discuss the various themes of European democracy.
Rafaela Paulo Teixeira is the author of the directive proposal “Registration of Vessels and Flags of Convenience in the European Union” in the scope of illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing:
Flags of convenience (FoC) in fisheries present a significant problem, as they allow vessel owners to register their vessels under the flag of a country with lax directives. This practice facilitates illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fisheries and endangers human rights. (…) Recognizing the importance of maritime transport within the European Union (EU) and the need to ensure the transparency, safety, and legality of vessels operating under flags of convenience (FoC), this directive aims to establish a comprehensive framework for the registration of vessels and the enforcement of directives pertaining to FoC. By maintaining accurate and accessible historic data of vessels and preventing illegal activities, the EU seeks to uphold maritime security, protect the rights of seafarers, and promote fair competition in the shipping industry.”.
Ricardo Cerqueira is the author of the directive proposal “Sustainable Ecosystems and Circular Economy: Advancing the #EUGreenDeal”:
The European Union (EU) establishes a directive to promote ecosystem services (ES), environmental value assessment and transition to a circular economy in line with the objectives of the European Ecological Pact. This aims to make the EU the first climate impact neutral continent by 2050, promoting economic growth, social inclusion and environmental sustainability. Recognizing the value of SEs, the need for responsible exploitation of resources, and support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to promote competitiveness and sustainable practices. Furthermore, the EU recognizes the importance of the circular economy in resource efficiency, waste reduction, and separating economic growth from resource consumption. By strengthening these initiatives, the EU seeks to accelerate the climate transition, increase ecosystem resilience, and inspire global action for a sustainable future.
The discussion group was organized by Hugo Rufino Marques, also the author of the proposed “Security and Defense” and “EU Values” directives. Daniela Silva was co-author, together with Ricardo Cerqueira, of the proposal for ideas to be debated on “Education”.
Following this work, at the invitation of the Consul General of Portugal in Strasbourg Patrícia Gaspar, Rafaela, Ricardo and Hugo were also able to make a presentation and give their testimony at the Radio Bienvenue Strasbourg (RBS) Podcast Voz de Portugal.
The ideas, expectations, and concerns of young people have been collected and will be distributed to all Members of the European Parliament in the form of a report.
The ideas, expectations, and concerns of young people have been collected and will be distributed to all Members of the European Parliament in the form of a report.”
"We would like to thank all the sponsors who contributed to this cause and supported us: APPBIBIZ.PT, Givachoice Garments and Miclair, CS Plastic, Remax Triunfo, Ice Frut, Requinte Calçado e Acessórios, Hospital Veterinário TrofaVet24, Com Confiança, Confeitaria Brandão, ambimaia water treatment solutions, Café-Bar Obrigado, Sílvia Dias Jewelry & Fashion, Pizzaria Ponto Pizza and Magui Moda."
Rafaela and Ricardo
