Yesterday, November 4, 2025, the Provincial Youth Debate took place in the Chamber of the Zeeland Provincial House. More than twenty young people aged 12 to 18 from all education levels voiced their opinions on current provincial issues and debated with Members of the Provincial Council. By participating in the Youth Debate, young people have the chance to take part in the National Youth Debate in the House of Representatives. The Provincial Youth Debate is organized by NJR in cooperation with the Province of Zeeland.
Proposals to Members of the Provincial Council
The young people spoke with Members of the Provincial Council about themes that concern them, such as sports, social involvement, and public transport. Members of the Provincial Council Gerwi Temmink (PvdA/GroenLinks), Ernst Jonker (PvdA/GroenLinks), and Mascha Boone-Tuijnman (Party for Zeeland) actively participated in the discussions and gave feedback on the proposals from the youth. One proposal was to invite sports clubs to schools to promote lesser-known sports. Additionally, they believe more campaigning should be done to make Flex public transport better known. It was also discussed to place volunteer work alongside vacancies and internships on ZeeuwseVacaturebank.nl to stimulate volunteering.
Deputy Harry van der Maas opened the debate in the afternoon: “We gladly make youth debates like the Provincial Youth Debate possible. The younger generation has a fresh perspective on issues affecting our province. Furthermore, the youth gain experience in debating and come into contact with politics and democracy. We certainly encourage this.”
National Youth Debate
This is already the 31st edition of the Provincial Youth Debate. NJR also organizes the Provincial Youth Debate in other provinces. Afterwards, some young people are selected to participate in the National Youth Debate in the House of Representatives, where they get the chance to present their ideas to national politicians, including Members of Parliament, state secretaries, and ministers.
About NJR
NJR is the umbrella organization of 41 national youth organizations and thus the largest youth network in the Netherlands. NJRs mission is to connect young people, with their own strengths, with each other and with organizations shaping our world. Also visit: www.njr.nl or www.jeugddebat.nl
