Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture, Tourism and Youth, the Hon Christian Santos GMD MP, facilitated a special session in Parliament for members of the Youth Symposium. Twenty-eight young people attended and heard the Hon. Judge Karen Rammage GMH MP speak about her role as Speaker of the House.

Participants had the opportunity to learn about Madam Speaker’s professional background and the various roles she has held throughout her career, including her extensive work in law and the justice system, and more recently, her responsibilities as Speaker at the Gibraltar Parliament.

Madam Speaker provided an insightful overview of Gibraltar’s political history from the 1950s onwards, highlighting key milestones such as the two Gibraltar Referendums and the development of the Constitution and explaining their significance in shaping Gibraltar’s modern political landscape.

One participant reflected on the experience, saying: “I thoroughly enjoyed the session with Madam Speaker. Hearing about her journey in law and her emphasis on the importance of debate reminded me of the power a voice holds and how speaking up isn’t just important, it can truly be impactful.”

Another young attendee shared a similar sentiment, stating: “It was inspiring to hear about the journey Madam Speaker has had throughout her lifetime. She passed on lessons she had learned and gave us students an insight into the importance of debate and having our voices heard in society.”

Madam Speaker also spoke about the importance of open debate, respectful dialogue and active civic engagement. This aligns closely with Minister Santos’ ethos of empowering young people and giving them a voice. This is part of the crucial work the Youth Symposium continues to do by encouraging them to speak passionately and supporting them in addressing issues that affect their lives.

To conclude the session, Madam Speaker announced that a new project will soon be established, aimed at further strengthening youth involvement in parliamentary and civic processes. The young people engaged in questions and were very interested in the session.

For further information on the Youth Symposium contact rebecca.figueras@gibraltar.gov.gi.