Meerhen fifty students were recently introduced to local politics in an interactive way during the First Voters debate. The initiative, organized by Markland College, Municipality Moerdijk and meer Moerdijk, was specially designed for students who are close to being allowed to vote or who may cast their votes for the first time this year.

The day began at Markland College in Zevenbergen. Upon entering, students immediately cast their first vote, based on the knowledge they had about the various political parties at that time. This provided an interesting starting point for the rest of the program.

The students then engaged in discussions with representatives of as many as nine political parties. During so-called ‘speed dates’ of ten minutes, the students changed tables each time and spoke with a different party. In these short but intensive conversations, they were able to ask questions, share their opinions and learn meer about the parties' positions and plans. This gave the students a good idea of how local politics works and what the parties stand for.

After the break, the program moved to the Moerdijk room of City Hall. There, a debate took place between the political parties, based on statements made by the students themselves. This made for a lively and engaged debate in which topics that are really important to young people were discussed.

At the end of the day, students cast their votes again. It was striking that voting patterns had clearly shifted. Whereas in the first round of voting mainly nationally known parties received the most votes, in the second round the focus was clearly meer on local politics. A great result that shows that meer knowledge about local parties and issues actually influences young voters' choices.

Lisette Stoelman, involved in the organization on behalf of meer Moerdijk, looks back on the day with satisfaction:
“It is incredibly valuable to see how involved these young people are. By introducing them to local politics in an approachable way, we are helping them to cast their first vote later, well-informedmeerd.”

All in all, it was an educational and valuable day for all participants. We wish all students who will soon be able to vote good luck in making their choice. Of course, we also thank the political parties who took the time to engage in conversation with the young people and thus contribute to a strong local democracy. Watch the video here.