Article by Motaz Amer, YEM UK Head of Diversity
On Friday evening at Glasgow University Union, I witnessed one of those moments that reminds you why youth political engagement really matters.
A packed debating chamber, buzzing with energy and curiosity, came together to debate whether Scotland and the UK should rejoin the European Union. What struck me immediately was not just the scale of turnout but the seriousness with which students approached the question.
Which showed that this was not a symbolic debate. It was thoughtful, informed and deeply engaged discussion.
What was particularly powerful was the shared starting point across both sides of the debate.
Even the opposition acknowledged that Brexit has been one of the most damaging political decisions in recent British history. Where they differed was not on whether Brexit had failed or not, but was timing and on what should come next.
That alone says a lot about where the younger generation is politically. The speakers brought facts, lived experience, humour and passion. From Alyn Smith, Emilia Faulkner and Sir Ian Forrester on the proposition, to Dr Michael Scanlan and the student debaters leading the opposition.
As Head of Diversity and Inclusion at the Young European Movement, what stayed with me most was the room itself. The questions from the floor were sharp and rooted in fairness, opportunity and solidarity. Many of these students were too young to vote in 2016, yet they are living with the consequences every day. When the vote came, the outcome was clear.
By acclamation, the room backed a future where the UK and Scotland return to the European Union, as this debate showed something bigger.
Young people are ready to lead serious conversations about our future and they are doing so with intelligence, empathy and confidence.
That really gives me real hope.