The Model European Parliament
The Model European Parliament (MEP) was founded in 1994. Its aim was, and continues to be, to foster better understanding and awareness of European issues among the young adults of Europe. The MEP simulates the sessions held in the European Parliament centres, Brussels and Strasbourg. Participation in one of these sessions gives students an insight into the workings of the European Parliament and other institutions. It also helps to bring about a sense of European identity. With the EU now expanded to include in total of 25 full members and, with the recent addition of the Macedonia, five candidate countries – of which Turkey is one – it is now more important than ever that good relations and mutual understanding are promoted.
The MEP is also a cultural event, which gives students the opportunity to experience the diverse cultures of Europe and different life-styles. The first two days of the event are spent team-building at a location in the city where the event is taking place. During the week visits are organised to centres of historical or cultural interest. Students are also invited to meet their country’s ambassador, usually by means of a dinner at the ambassador’s residence, and are encouraged to discuss the issues being debated at the conference with him or her. However, the majority of the week is taken up with meetings, discussions and debates, culminating in the two day general assembly, which, after the real politicians have been evicted from the premises, takes place in the actual Parliament building of the country concerned.
This year this event took place in Rome, Italy from the 24th of November to the 1st of December. We have made a magnificent effort at this event and have represented MEF International School, and Turkey as a country, in an extremely positive light. |
