On December 4 and 5, 2025, 30 young people from Zeeland participated in the fifth edition of the Zeeland Youth Parliament. During these two days, young people between the ages of 15 and 23 from various educational levels had the opportunity to actively get acquainted with provincial politics and think along about current Zeeland themes. This years theme was: ‘Zeeland 2050’. The result of these two days consists of twelve concrete recommendations that the young people have drawn up for the provincial government.
Discover, meet and think along about Zeeland 2050
The first day took place in the heart of provincial politics. The participants learned more about Zeeland 2050, got to know topics that are extra important to them, debated with members of the Provincial Council, spoke with the Kings Commissioner and met deputies. On the second day, they visited Damen Naval in Vlissingen. There, the participants received a tour, could experience shipping themselves with a VR headset, and talked with employees of Young Damen. After lunch, the participants continued working on drafting the recommendations.
Deputy Harry van der Maas: “I find it inspiring to see how the participants dedicated themselves with passion for two days during the youth parliament. It was a valuable edition with many good ideas that give us energy and new insights. These recommendations help us to make policy that truly connects with the generation shaping Zeeland in 2050.”
Getting to work with recommendations
Based on the input from the two days, the participants formulated their insights and recommendations. At the end of the event, they handed them over to Deputy Van der Maas. The young people believe that growth in the number of inhabitants is necessary for Zeeland to maintain facilities and keep Zeeland vibrant. They also think that expansion of university education is needed to attract and retain young people. Additionally, the participants believe that Zeeland culture deserves more attention, including in schools. Curious about all twelve recommendations? Read them here. The Province of Zeeland will incorporate the results into its policy making.
