It is no secret that political games are complicated, especially here in Lebanon. Fortunately, the young generation did not lose its hope and is still fighting to change Lebanon for the best. 

However, in order to change a country, you need to understand its systems, regulations, values, and problems. “But how can we actively participate in the political life of our country if we do not know our history?” you will ask, and here is my response: “Participate in student activities that focus on empowering the younger generations in politics”. 

Empowering youth in politics and helping them understand the dynamics of political life in Lebanon was the main goal of the 10th edition of the Model Youth Parliament organized by the Student Life Office of USJ in collaboration with the NGO Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Lebanon (FNF). Over the span of 4 incredible days, we can take a shot at living the lives of deputies. 

We were able to meet new people, learn new things like lobbying and negotiating. We even got the chance to debate in the Lebanese parliament with actual deputies. Cherry on top, four talented students won a trip to Berlin to discover the German parliament.

We voted for four laws with many amendments each. All four laws passed, but not all the changes were granted, but that is part of the game. 

If I could summarize this wonderful experience, I would say a sentence that was said by many mentors and deputies: “Change doesn’t happen overnight; it needs time, but it also needs a step to start”.

Lastly, I would like to highlight the fact that you do not need to have previous experience in political science or law to participate in these kinds of activities, as the organizers made sure to prepare all the students equally. We had inspiring mentors that answered all our questions, articles that summarized the importance of these laws and we had each other. Never once would someone mock you if you did not know something; they would always be here to help and guide you. 

During the last day, we all left the gala with new friends, satisfied that our voice had been heard and certain that we, the future generation of Lebanon, may not be the same, but we all want to build a Lebanon as beautiful as it used to be and more. Moreover, the FNF also announced the launch of the MYP alumni circle to help every past and future participant not only during the simulation but also in our daily lives.