Issues Model European Parliament Malta 2019 - Hoofdinhoud

Development (DEVE)

The question of trade with developing nations.

Despite the end of the colonization era, it has been significantly evident that larger ‘superpower’ nations have attempted to expand their sphere of influence through direct foreign investment. However, these developing nations are also seeking to augment their economic growth through international trade. What can the European Union do to strengthen trade relations with developing nations in Africa and Asia? How can the European Union aid these nations improve economically and politically?

Foreign Affairs, subcommittee Human Rights (AFET/DROI)

The question of migrant youth in the European Union.

In September 2015, an image of a young migrant crossing the Mediterranean found dead on a beach in Turkey sent shockwaves around Europe. A significant proportion of the migrant influx Europe has been facing consists of youth and children. Therefore, with the special needs young people have, can it be said that European countries have done enough to provide proper facilities for migrant youth in Europe to continue their halted growth? What can the EU do to facilitate integration of migrant youths into European society?

Constitutional Affairs (AFCO)

The question of rule of law in the European Union. Democracy is the cornerstone of the European Union.

It is the duty of member states to uphold the values endorsed by the Union when it comes to the implementation of the democratic process. However, doubt has been raised on whether the democratic characteristics treasured by the European Union are shared and implemented by all of its member states. Is the EU ensuring the universal implementation of the Treaty of the European Union? What can the EU do to improve the state of rule of law in all of its member states?

Economic Affairs (ECON)

The question of digital technology. With more complex and intricate digital technological advancements, it falls upon the European Union to not only regulate any negative impacts to the Single Digital Market, but also to find a way to benefit fully from this digital transformation. How can the EU utilise new and future technologies to their utmost potential? How can it guarantee that the Single Market is fit for the digital age?

Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM)

The question of gender-based discrimination. Gender-based discrimination still effects many young people, especially young women. When compared to men, women are paid less, still underrepresented in politics and this affects the whole population. What prevents women from participating in politics? Are political gender quotas the solution to ensure a fairer representation?

International Trade (INTA)

The question of EU-Turkey trade. In December 1995, the European Union and Turkey bilaterally signed a trade agreement to facilitate trade movements between the two entities. However, a 2017 public consultation conducted by the European Commission found that respondents identified various difficulties and problems with the agreement, citing the need for modernization. In light of these conclusions, and with regard to recent political changes in Turkey, should the European Union propose changes to the Customs Union? Should the European Union seek to reduce or increase trade with Turkey?

Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) (I)

The issue of addressing growing mental health issues among young people.

As awareness of mental health issues among young people such as anxiety and depression increase yet the prevalence of mental disorders remains high, what steps can be taken to promote good mental health among young people in the EU? How could the European Union ensure that the issue of mental health problems receives more attention and is addressed more thoroughly? How to ensure that people know when and how to seek help?

Culture and Education (CULT)

The question of higher education costs.

The share of the tertiary economic sector is increasing fast. Equally so is the growing demand for a growing well-educated workforce. With students from disadvantaged backgrounds half as likely to attend university or college, what can the EU and EU Member states do to increase the accessibility of tertiary education?

Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL)

The question of a rising shared economy and youth employment.

The growth of the collaborative economy has resulted in labour, union and pay protests. How should European countries regulate or accommodate shared economy business models such as Airbnb or UBER. Is there an opening for youth employment opportunities?

Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) (II)

The question of climate change and ocean acidification.

The amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere now exceeds 400 parts per million (ppm), higher than at any other point in the rise of human civilization. This has contributed to an increase of global average temperatures by 1 degree Celsius from the pre-Industrial Age. There is also the concomitant problem of ocean acidification as carbon dioxide dissolves forming carbonic acid, with the resultant pH of the oceans already shifting from 8.2 to 8.1. Considering that the basis of the marine food chain consists of organisms with calcium carbonate as the main component of their shells (example coral reefs), there are fears that this may dissolve if the pH continues to fall, leading to a mass extinction of marine life in the near future. Although the EU has taken concrete measures to address the issue of climate change, according to Climate Action Tracker, the EU’s efforts still rank behind other countries, and is deemed insufficient to meet the 1.5 degree Celsius warming boundary as outlined in the Paris Climate Accord. Furthermore, some member states have fallen behind their targets. What measures can the EU take to scale up climate change? How can the EU ensure that member states fulfil their obligations? Should carbon capture technology be deployed on a vast scale in order to reduce Co2 emissions present in the atmosphere?