Youth Parliament is a government-run programme that gives rangatahi the chance to experience democracy in the Beehive, represent their communities, and have their voices heard on national issues. Yet this year’s Youth Parliament saw claims of censorship, raising questions about the role of civics education and the triennial event itself. Minister for Youth James Meager and three Youth MPs weigh in.
“I found the entire Youth Parliament experience incredibly rewarding, especially as it was the first one in my tenure as Youth Minister,” James Meager says. “I got to experience first-hand what a great example of youth voice in action these were – providing Youth MPs with the ability to report their communities’ voices directly to decision-makers on real-time policy issues.
“While there were a wide range of issues and topics raised by the Youth MPs, I was particularly moved by those who spoke of overcoming adversity and disadvantage to get where they are today. A couple spoke very bravely and openly about their own learning difficulties and personal experiences that had shaped their lives. I thought that was a wonderful lesson for all young people, that no matter your background or challenges, hard work and the support of your family and community can bring great success.”
“I think ensuring the voice of young people is heard in politics is essential for any democracy. It’s an important part of ensuring a diverse range of beliefs and opinions is represented well in Parliament.
“We know there are issues around the world with getting younger people interested in and involved with government – at both a central and local level – and programmes like Youth Parliament are a great example of opportunities to bolster the voice and engagement of younger generations.”
Youth MPs tell all
Nate Wilbourne, Youth MP for Damien O’Connor, is also the founder and advisor of Gen-Z Aotearoa, a national by-youth, for-youth network.
Ruby Love-Smith, Youth MP for Tracey McLellan, is also a spokesperson for Make It 16, a Youth Councillor, and advocate who uplifts the voices of youth and wāhine across Aotearoa.
Sylvie Macfarlane, Youth MP for Camilla Belich, is an award-winning healthcare and youth advocate and assistant editor at Create Happy, the nation’s largest teen-led media outlet.
All three loved Youth Parliament, a chance to participate in political discussions. “Youth Parliament gives us one of the few genuine opportunities to engage directly in democracy, to share our perspectives, and to practice the skills we’ll need to be active citizens!” Nate says.
“These opportunities prove that our rangatahi aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow, we’re leaders now, and we deserve to be heard,” Ruby adds.
What were the highlights of Youth Parliament 2025 for you?
Nate: The biggest highlight for me was meeting rangatahi from across Aotearoa who are so engaged in their communities, whether through advocacy, NGOs, or grassroots mahi. It was inspiring to connect with people who are passionate about making change and to learn from their perspectives.
Ruby: For me, the highlight would have to be the press conference held by myself and my fellow spokespeople at Make It 16. While Youth Parliament was an amazing experience, the censorship of speeches and content left many Youth MPs feeling unheard and discouraged. It was a privilege to stand up for our rangatahi and bring that issue into the public spotlight.
Sylvie: Being able to carry the voices of my village with me into the Debating Chamber has been so fulfilling. In a way, it wasn’t just me speaking in the three minutes I was given; it was the hundreds of rural Kiwis whom I had consulted and the thousands more who shared similar experiences. I was so inspired by the rangatahi I met in Youth Parliament, who have such valuable insight into our communities that stems from unique experiences and engagement initiatives.
What issues or debates stood out to you most?
Sylvie: There were countless debates on the education system failing our young people. With the projected changes for NCEA being launched, I found that the cries to be heard and have our say on education were not entirely recognised. Countless Youth MPs pushed for the youth voice to be involved in decisions regarding mainstream education, kura kaupapa Māori, and beyond. And yet, those who spoke out on our failing education system with grace and strength were heard only by their fellow rangatahi, less so in power.
Ruby: Easily the most popular speech topic, the mental health crisis is front of mind for so many rangatahi. It’s no secret that Aotearoa New Zealand’s youth mental health statistics are appalling, but the lack of action is burdening our young people. If we want our rangatahi to have bright futures, we need to let kids be kids. They shouldn’t have to carry the responsibility of supporting their friends when the system doesn’t.
And honouring Te Tiriti. It’s not just history, it’s a living agreement that shapes the Aotearoa we’re growing up in. When Te Tiriti is honoured, rangatahi Māori can thrive in their culture, language, and identity. All rangatahi benefit from a more just and inclusive society. By upholding Te Tiriti, we’re creating a foundation where the next generation can stand tall, connected, and united.
Do you have any other comments?
Nate: I do think there were some concerns about young people’s voices being silenced. We were told not to criticise the government or ministers, and our speeches were edited by MYD before being sent back with “changes required.” For next time, I think it’s really important that there’s more transparency and consultation with young people in the process, and that we’re given the space to speak our minds and hold the government accountable if we choose. After all, that’s what true engagement in democracy should look like!
Sylvie: In representing our communities, we were the lucky ones. Hundreds of thousands of young people our age across the country do not get the opportunity to engage in democracy as closely as we did, with many of these young people being from marginalised communities. While we did our best in voicing the concerns of our communities, engaging in politics remains incredibly challenging for many young people, leaving countless important voices unheard. Without systemic change, countless important perspectives will continue to be excluded from the conversations that shape our future. It would be great to see future Youth Parliament events enable those who find engaging in politics challenging, to ensure all voices are able to be heard.
