© Carla Schuller / RTL
On Friday, members of parliament were accompanied by 123 young students from Cycles 3 and 4 as part of the seventh edition of the 'Train of Democracy' initiative.
The project, designed to introduce children to the principles and processes of democracy, brought together primary school classes from Bettembourg, Bertrange, Itzig, Nommern, Limpertsberg, and Wiltz.
The visit notably gave the pupils the opportunity to share their ideas with members of parliament, ranging from classroom pets to inclusive playgrounds for children with disabilities. However, the overarching theme behind the proposals was a shared commitment to societal growth and democracy.
A hopeful indicator for Luxembourg's next generation of voters, according to Claude Wiseler, President of the Chamber. "Caring for others, inclusiveness, and respect are important values to these children; these values are already strongly represented in them, which is wonderful to see."
The project also encouraged the children to articulate their understanding of democracy and politics. Some even depicted politicians with oversized ears to help them "listen better." There also seemed to be a consensus among the young visitors that they felt heard during their interactions with the MPs.
"I thought our ideas were heard because two politicians expressed interest in visiting us at school on Friday to discuss our points with the children's council," one pupil shared. The direct dialogue between pupils and politicians aims to reduce any perceived distance between young people and politics.
Michèle Schilt, Deputy Director of the Centre for Political Education, highlighted recurring themes in the children's concerns, such as justice, safety, and environmental issues.
"Children respond to current events – they talk and worry about war, safety, and the environment – eflecting the broader anxieties of society."
The direct dialogue thus enabled the children to share their concerns with those who have the power – and the responsibility – to address them. The children ended their visit by urging the MPs to do their jobs well, or risk losing their vote in the next elections.
Watch the report in Luxembourgish:
