Youth Parliamentary Academy Toolkit

The Youth Parliamentary Academy (YPA) Toolkit is a practical guide developed by International IDEA under the Inter Pares | Parliaments in Partnership programme, funded by the European Union.

It is designed to help parliaments plan and deliver their own YPA — a four-day programme that brings together around 20 young people to learn about democratic principles, parliamentary processes, and leadership skills; while offering young participants direct engagement with members of parliament and parliamentary staff, equipping them with knowledge, practical skills, and opportunities to influence parliamentary thinking.

The Toolkit includes:

• Guidance for parliamentary staff on setting objectives, selecting participants, building a balanced programme, and ensuring effective follow-up.
• Sample materials and annexes such as a model programme, pitch templates, registration and consent forms, evaluation surveys, and a planning timeline.
• Lessons learned from the first YPA, hosted by the National Assembly of Zambia in 2024, with participation from Austria and Ireland.

By using the Toolkit, parliaments can adapt the YPA model to their own contexts, foster inclusive dialogue with youth, and strengthen democratic engagement.