13 members of Pakistan Youth Parliament depart for Denmark

Learning about democracy

Islamabad: Thirteen members of Youth Parliament of Pakistan departed here on Monday on a four-day study visit to Copenhagen, Denmark, to learn about the democratic and Parliamentary systems, institutional measures of public accountability and transparency of Governments.

The study visit is facilitated by PILDAT and funded by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA), Government of Denmark.

The members were given an exclusive pre departure briefing session by the Danish Embassy, where Jakob Rogild Jakobsen, Deputy Head of Mission gave the delegation an overview of Pakistan-Denmark relations along with an introduction to Danish political and democratic set up. The briefing ended with an interactive question answer session. Talking to the young people, Jakobsen said that “Democracy is the cornerstone of Danish society. It has played a key role in empowering every citizen and strengthening accountability to protect citizens’ rights. Democracy gives citizens the power to bring changes to their societies. Every citizen has equal opportunities to help make laws, vote for leaders and be protected by laws and rights that are in place. It is however, important to continue to improve all aspects of governance if we want to provide equal opportunities for all, reduce poverty and promote sustainable development.”

Jakobsen further added that “we are confident that this visit will give the young members a deeper insight into how important democracy and governance is to build fair, progressive, tolerant and peaceful societies.”

Wazir Ahmed Jogezai, Speaker Youth Parliament Pakistan/Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan appreciated the efforts of DANIDA and PILDAT in supporting and facilitating a training platform for the youth of Pakistan in the political and democratic affairs. Present at the pre departure briefing, Jogezai congratulated the young Members selected for the Study Visit and hoped that they would be writing and sharing their experiences upon their return.

The young members will also visit the Danish Parliament and interact with members of Parliament and hold discussions on particular issues facing Pakistan and youth of Pakistan. The Ambassador of Pakistan to Denmark, Masroor Ahmed Junejo will also be hosting a dinner reception in the honour of the visiting young delegation.

Ahmed Bilal Mehboob, Secretary General Youth Parliament Pakistan & President PILDAT, speaking on the occasion, said “Study Visit is an excellent opportunity for Members of the Youth Parliament to learn about Denmark’s democratic and political structure.

 We are happy to facilitate an opportunity of learning, interaction and exposure to the young and bright minds of Pakistan.” He also added that, “The composition of the delegation is such as it represents each geographical area of Pakistan and top performing MYPs are part of this study visit. I wish them good luck and wish to see them learn and grow in every walk of life. He thanked the Government of Denmark for its continuing support to development of youth’s leadership potential in Pakistan.

PILDAT officials accompanying the delegation include: Aasiya Riaz, Joint Director PILDAT and Muhammad Saad, Projects Manager, PILDAT.

The Youth Parliament Pakistan, a PILDAT initiative, is aimed at inculcating in youth of Pakistan values and spirit for democracy, the importance of dialogue, tolerance for others’ views, an understanding of the concept of Parliament and its role in democratic decision-making and oversight. The current programme is supported and financed by the Danish International Development Agency, Embassy of Denmark, Islamabad, who have been supporting the YPP since 2010.