Mock Elections and EU Careers Fair

Youth Participation and Democracy Award category

Mock Elections and EU Careers Fair

Organisation

WSTCYS

Country

Ireland

WEBSITE

https://wstcys.ie/

Project link

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=755788793407565&set=a.237954398524343

General Overview

Europe Direct Waterford, in collaboration with Eurodesk Waterford, Waterford Comhairle na nÓg and the Waterford and South Tipperary Community Youth Service (WSTCYS), ran a European Election for Senior-Cycle Secondary Students which took place on 14th May 2024.

Eurodesk Waterford visited secondary schools throughout Waterford during European Youth Week 2024, which ran from 12-19 April. The theme was “Voice your Vision” with a focus on democracy and the European elections. We spoke about the European Elections and how young people can become more engaged in society and put democracy into action, ensuring that their voice is heard and advising them that they can pre-register to vote if they are aged 16 or over.

All participants were invited to take part in the Youth European Election, the format of which mirrored the European Elections. The election took place in City Hall, Waterford on 14th May 2024.

Students from five secondary schools across the city participated. On Election Day, the young people had the opportunity to visit our Polling Station, which was set up using real polling booths and operated using the actual process. Voting cards with the running candidates were given to each student, and the process was explained before they voted. Visits were staggered into time slots throughout the day.

After voting, the young people were invited to visit The Large Room in City Hall, which had stalls from the European Commission, Eurodesk, WSTCYS, Waterford Libraries, and the Southern Regional Assembly.

The young people were then educated on the counting process by the Waterford Court Residing Officer and shown how their votes were counted, assisted by Waterford’s Youth Council. There was time to meet and talk with the various organisations. The event was broadcast on BEAT102103, which is a youth-focused radio station.

Thematic Category Correspondence

(50 points max)

How does this initiative (project, event, material) correspond to the thematic category

The project allowed young people to understand the process and what was involved in the act of voting. Participants also viewed the counting process, and it was explained how each vote was counted and how transfers worked. This immersive experience built their skillset and knowledge around the voting process. Young people were also encouraged to pre-register to vote from 16.

This initiative featured several components to deepen students’ understanding of democracy: expert insights, youth advocacy, election process education, peer experiences, and international exposure. By immersing students in a realistic electoral environment and providing educational resources, the mock election initiative effectively encouraged young people in Waterford to engage with and appreciate the democratic process.

Impact

(30 points max)

How did your project impact young people / your community?

The mock election project in Waterford had a significant impact on young people by:

Increasing Awareness of Voting – By participating in a realistic voting experience, students became more familiar with the electoral process, reducing intimidation around voting in real elections.

Encouraging Civic Engagement – Hearing from youth advocates and professionals helped students understand the importance of their voices in shaping democracy. Many left with a stronger sense of responsibility to participate in future elections.

Providing Career Insights – The event introduced students to career opportunities within the EU, particularly in language translation, governance, and youth advocacy, expanding their perspectives on how they can contribute to society.

Boosting Confidence in Democracy – Learning directly from a Returning Officer and engaging in a mock election helped students trust the democratic process and feel empowered to make informed choices.

Inspiring Future Participation – Through real-world experiences shared by peers involved in European youth programmes, students were motivated to explore similar opportunities and actively participate in civic life.

Overall, the project made democracy more accessible and relevant to young people, equipping them with knowledge and motivation to engage in their communities and future elections.

Green Focus

(10 points max)

Did your project have any green focus and/or did you implement any eco-friendly measures when organising it?

The event was held at City Hall in the city. This central location was chosen as it was easily accessible to schools. Most of the schools walked to the event. One school was provided with transport as it was further away. This was arranged through a local youth transport service.

Youth Participation and Democracy Award category