Youth municipal councils established in France and Belgium

Local governments in France and Belgium have inaugurated new youth municipal councils to encourage civic engagement among students.

In France, Gabriel Milloncourt was elected junior mayor, alongside deputy Inès Delacourt, following the installation of the youth council. The council will utilize an allocated municipal budget to pursue projects such as improving school cleanliness, creating community gardens and insect hotels, and organizing sporting activities. The elected youth will also visit the Senate in Paris.

In Marche, Belgium, twelve new student council members from primary schools were sworn in. Mayor Nicolas Grégoire emphasized that the experience would teach students about democracy, the necessity of listening to differing opinions, and the process of turning ideas—such as building playgrounds or bike paths—into reality.