Covestro supports the European Youth Parliament

Covestro is supporting the European Youth Parliament to encourage exchange, opinion-building, and democratic engagement among young people in Europe. For this purpose, the company has formed a partnership with the Berlin-based Schwarzkopf Foundation Young Europe, the umbrella organization. This year, Covestro will serve as a topic sponsor at two upcoming international sessions – next week in Finland on the subject of circular economy, and in autumn in Spain on innovation and the knowledge society.

Since 1987, the European Youth Parliament has brought together thousands of young people from all over Europe in various forums. The flagship events are more than one hundred international sessions held two to three times per year in different countries. In a format similar to the EU’s European Parliament, participants discuss a wide range of socio-political topics in committees, develop ideas, and pass resolutions.

Promoting Discussion and Collaboration

As a socially responsible company, Covestro is committed to supporting the networking, exchange, and creativity of young people – thus strengthening their understanding of democratic values. "Showing commitment and civil engagement is more important than ever," says CEO Markus Steilemann. "That’s why we actively participate in the Youth Parliament and are excited to hear the impulses young Europeans will bring."

At the 102nd international session in Turku, Finland, starting July 21, a Covestro representative will speak with participants about circular economy in the EU. Covestro sees circularity as a key to climate neutrality, environmental protection, resource conservation, and sustainable value creation—and aims to establish it as a global guiding principle.

The 103rd session in Málaga, Spain, kicking off in late October, will focus on strengthening Europe’s capacity for innovation. Covestro will speak in a committee on innovation and the knowledge society and engage with young participants. "It’s especially important to us that in times of populism and misinformation, a fact-based dialogue prevails and democratic values are not eroded," says Steilemann.

At the conclusion of these sessions, participants adopt resolutions at a general assembly to present viewpoints and propose specific solutions. These resolutions often reach political institutions and actors such as the European Parliament, the EU Commission, the Council of Europe, or UNESCO.