A three-day Tonga Youth Parliament started today, November 12 under a theme “Our Parliament-Bringing Parliament to You” at the main Chamber of the Legislative Assembly.

On a video-call, Princess Mele Siu’ilikutapu Kalaniuvalu-Fotofili, Tonga's first woman MP, in opening the Youth Parliament, advised the young members that the legislature is a law making body and it is crucial that they know the law. The Princess wished them well in their deliberations.

The Speaker Lord Fakafanua said this is the first youth parliament since 2010.  Although there had been three General Elections, but only half of the youth that were eligible to vote turned out to vote.

In pointing out the importance of engaging and including youth in the democratic process, he said in the latest 2016 census report showed that about 8,736 of Tonga's 100,156 population were between the ages of 15-24 years.

“This indicates that a very significant portion of our population are young people and it is time that we introduce the voices, talents, strengths and expertise of these young people into the process of decision making,” he said.

"The theme is premised on our vision of an inclusive, vibrant and participatory society. It is a testament to the Legislative Assembly's commitment to youth empowerment, leadership, education and providing a platform where the voice of our young people and our youth can be heard."

The session allows 27 young members between the ages of 15-33 to deliberate on a number of Bills including Prohibition of Disposable Plastics, Illicit Drugs Control (Amendment) and a few motions.

Last week, the youth members participated in an intensive orientation program to prepare for the sitting and met as parliamentary committees to learn about committee processes.

In addition, they were also briefed on national issues from government ministries, civil society organisations and development agencies.