My name is Nea-Bettina Baarman and I’m the president of JEF Finland. I’ve been a JEFfer since 2016 and since then I’ve been in various positions at the national and local level – and president from the beginning of August 2024.

My role as the JEF Finland’s president for the past two years has been marked with turbulence when in 2023 we lost our operating grant. With the power of cooperation, out of the box thinking and hard work JEF Finland gained its operating grant and survived the difficulties stronger than ever.

I am running for the FC Presidium because I believe we as a JEF can be stronger, more united and inclusive. In my eyes the Presidium has the unique possibility to connect JEFfers in our stationary meetings as well as by fostering continuous dialogue between JEF bodies, Task Forces and Political Commissions, creating a stronger sense of unity, shared purpose and collaboration.

My main priority as a Presidium Member would be to build up the trust in JEF. As a Member of Presidium I would make sure the presidium will serve as a dependable and transparent body, ensuring consistency, clarity, and responsibility in its work providing the Federal Committee with stability.

BRIDGE-BUILDING: The Presidium should facilitate dialogue and understanding via encouraging open debate while seeking genuine consensus between the Executive Board, directly elected members and national sections. By ensuring that all voices are heard and respected, we can build a culture of trust and cooperation that unites JEF around shared goals.
OPEN & TRANSPARENT COMMUNICATION: Clear, consistent and accessible communication must guide JEF’s work. The Presidium should ensure open information flow between the European and national levels.
ATTENDANCE AT EB MEETINGS: Active presence at Executive Board meetings is key to connecting JEF’s political and operational levels. Presidium members should follow discussions and support coordination.

Political Commissions for the upcoming mandate have to remain responsive to the turbulent political and social context we are living in and serve as platforms to further develop and reinterpret federalism in light of today’s challenges. It is essential to ensure that the work of the Task Forces reflects the diversity within JEF acknowledging the varying needs, capacities, and realities of national sections, and creating structures that allow each of them to contribute meaningfully and benefit equally.

IG: @neabaarman, +358 44 330 6224

???? I was born on 16.12.1999 in Deva, a town located in Transylvania, surrounded by cultural diversity, just like the city where I chose to continue my studies – Sibiu.

? After completing my Bachelor in Law and Master in Criminal Sciences, I entered a ??? programme in ?????’? ????????? ?????? at the same university – ULBS.

?️ The ability to speak multiple languages (Romanian, Italian, French, English, Turkish, Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, and Chinese) facilitates my integration into various environments.

?️ From Co-Editor-in-Chief, PR Officer, IO, VP, to ??-?????????, I’ve always promoted dedication & inclusivity within my section, cooperation with foreign JEFers.

ᴘʀᴏᴘᴏꜱᴇᴅ ɪɴɪᴛɪᴀᴛɪᴠᴇꜱ

? ??? ???? ?? ????? ?? ????????? ????? ?????? (December 10)

??‍?‍?? ????? ?? ??? – ????, ??????? ??? ?????? (March 8)

???? ???????? ??????? ?? ? ?????? ?????? (September 2)

I am an altruistic, ambitious, and friendly person that could foster stronger communication, collaboration and cooperation between the national sections and JEF Europe. I will use my ??????????, ????????? (acquired both academically and in JEF), and ?????? to promote a Federal Europe in which all citizens feel represented (regardless of gender, identity, or background), just as our founding parents – Altiero Spinelli and Ursula Hirschmann – dreamed of at Ventotene.

? ?????????????? – ensure that women and other under-represented groups from all geographical areas of Europe have a visible and active role in JEF.

??‍?? ????????????? – foster stronger communication, coordination and cooperation between the national sections and JEF Europe.

? ?????? – increase JEF’s involvement in the field of human rights and freedoms (gender equality; the rights of LGBT+ community, national minorities; migration et al.)

I am interested in joining the Diversity & Empowerment TF because of my vision, dedication, experience and creativity. Definitely, I could also help in the Communication TF since I am strongly passionate about creating designs for different social media campaigns and editing videos made by JEFers on crucial topics.

tiberia1612 (IG)

Hello! I’m Stefano, 24 years old, from a small town in northern Italy called Treviolo. I recently graduated with a Master’s degree in Data Science for Economics. I gained early experience as a Research Assistant, both in academia and at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre. At nineteen, I moved to Milan to continue my studies and joined the local JEF section, where I focused on what I believe is at the core of JEF’s mission: creating federalist awareness among young people.

I’m running as a member of the Federal Committee and as co-chair of PC1 because I believe that strong and democratic institutions are key to unlocking Europe’s full potential. Despite the progress made, we still face a fragmented internal market, an incomplete banking union, and limited fiscal and political integration. These are problems that undermine Europe’s ability to act effectively, both internally and on the global stage, making it even harder to tackle the economic, social, and security challenges ahead.
As co-chair of PC1, the Political Commission on Institutional Affairs and Governance, I want to help advance the federalist vision of a more united, democratic, and capable Europe. I am eager to bring my academic background to the disposal of the PC, to reinforce our debates on governance structures, economic integration, and institutional reform

My vision for the future of JEF focuses on three core priorities: pushing for institutional reform and Treaty change, defending the Schengen area and the right to free movement, and advancing a federal approach towards European security and defence. To remain true to our federalist identity, JEF must continue to push for Treaty change. The current framework of the European Union no longer matches the political and global challenges we face. We need stronger democratic institutions, more efficient decision-making, and a real political and fiscal union.

I reckon the Political Commission should focus on key areas where federalist reform is both necessary and realistic. First, it’s essential to revisit and update previous resolutions addressing core topics such as multi-speed integration, the creation of a fiscal union, the completion of the banking union, the protection of the rule of law, environmental challenges, and Treaty reform. These issues constitute the backbone of any functioning society: ensuring economic stability, safeguarding the rule of law, and promoting sustainability.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefano-chiesa-8a0502184/

I’m Alberto, an Italian federalist from Verona. I joined JEF Italy in 2018 in Gorizia, becoming Secretary of the local section. After moving back to Verona for my Master’s in European Policies, I joined the local section and currently serve as Treasurer. I have been active at all levels of JEF and UEF, as a Board member of JEF Veneto, a member of the JEF Italy Federal Committee, and a regular participant in statutory events. I also sit on the Board of L’Unità Europea, the newspaper of the Italian Federalist Movement. I now live in Brussels, working in EU energy policy. Over the years, I have organised and spoken at events on federalism, international trade, positive peace and regionalism.

I am running for FC member and co-chair of PC2 because I want to contribute my experience in federalism and EU policies to JEF. In my professional role, I manage an association and coordinate working groups on EU legislation. I believe that strong internal debate is essential to prepare our members intellectually and politically for the federalist struggle.

On advocacy, we must clearly state that Europe cannot face global challenges while rejecting federal solutions. With the MFF under negotiation and rising expectations from citizens, we must show how deeper integration brings concrete benefits. Treaty Change is not optional, but the only path to face an unstable and increasingly autocratic world. Internally, JEF must grow its membership and support sections according to their needs.

Task Forces should strengthen JEF’s organisational capacity, training activists in federalist theory and practical skills, especially in newer or smaller sections. Within PC2, debate must focus on core European achievements such as the free movement of people—one of the EU’s greatest successes, now facing renewed challenges. PC2 should also address Europe’s industrial competitiveness, a central concern for policymakers. As global competition intensifies, JEF must offer a federalist vision for Europe’s strategic autonomy and economic future.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alberto-gasparato/

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Western Slavonic Studies, Master of Arts in Classical German Philosophy at the Friedrich Schiller University Jena
2019 till 2022 President of the JEF section in Jena
2019 till 2022 member of the board of the state section JEF Thuringia
2022 till 2025 member of the Federal Board of JEF Germany
Chair of the Bundesarbeitungsgemeinschaft zur Aufklärung und Prävention gegen Rechtsextremismus (APRex) of JEF Germany since its foundation as informal working group in 2023

In the past years, I have developed an expertise on far right politics as well as organizing structures within JEF that are able to monitor the activities of the enemy. The BAG APRex has as well worked on several projects in political education of this topic. Since some JEF sections are already targeted by such groups, I would like to contribute my experience to better prepare our organization for such attacks.

In addition, I see the FC as a supervisory body that critically and cooperatively monitors the work of the EB. My often direct manner of expressing criticism is helpful in this context in order to further anchor a culture of discussion on an equal footing within our organization.

As an organization stemming from antifascism, I propose a JEF that is operating as an activist organization on the basis of a clear set of principles. European Federalism is hereby a nonpartisan political framework in which new political ideas are developed that can produce a renewed trust in democratic procedures.

With my fellow candidate Cyprien Bettini, we want to form a new working group inside the FC to work solely on those questions both from an intellectual and activist perspective with FC members and sections who are interested in those topics.

+49 1517 3054696; IG: konstis_beauty_palace

As a founding member of JEF Estonia, serving as VP & Secretary General, I’ve helped build a section known for its rapid rise & organisational excellence. I also co-led the team that organised JEF Europe’s well remembered Spring Federal Committee 2024 in Tartu.

I’ve worked close with Nordic, Baltic, & Eastern European sections, leading projects to strengthen regional cooperation & our shared political voice. I’ve also been active in PC3.

I’m a pragmatic, principled federalist guided by facts & justice. My approach is structured & impact oriented. I believe in acting with courage, building unity through shared values, & shaping Europe to what we want it to be.

My focus is for PC3 to shape Europe’s global role in democracy, justice, & solidarity, free from colonial & neoliberal legacies.

I would:
1. Make PC3 a hub for expert-informed, fact-based debate
2. Turn difficult topics into opportunities for unity & learning
3. Bridge internal divides through equal commitment to international law, human rights, & federalist principles

JEF must connect ideals to action through informed & purposeful activism. We must be diplomatic in approach but radical in commitment, ready to question power, engage critically, & act with reasoned conviction. This balance between diplomacy & courage is, to me, what defines meaningful leadership & what we need for PC3.

JEF must remain Europe’s youth voice for federalism, democracy, & justice while
regaining the courage to act. Next mandate, we must prioritise:

1. Impactful activism to turn ideas into visible results
2. Stronger unity between sections to build resilience & inclusion
3. Credibility abroad by ensuring the EU lives up to its principles, especially toward the Middle East, Africa, & our allies

To be federalists is to challenge hypocrisy & demand coherence between Europe’s words & actions. We must have difficult conversations & focus on building constructively from them.

Political Commissions must work more closely, using their strengths to produce
coordinated, substantive policies. PC3 should focus on international engagement with decolonised cooperation & the defence of international law as the backbone. I also support building upon the Federalist Peace Forum project as a means for effective peace building.

Our political work must stay principled & evidence-based, grounded in solidarity & universality. Systematic coordination will allow JEF to not just be a commentator but a shaper of Europe’s moral & political direction.

Whatsapp: +372 5859 3500, IG: abdllhsddqi

I am currently the co-chair of PC3. I began my journey in JEF in 2014. Over the past two years, I have had the opportunity to experience the importance of the global dimension of our political work. As an example, I contributed to the organization of the Ventotene International Seminar and of the Federalist Peace Forum. Outside of JEF, I work in international cooperation, mostly living abroad in the MENA region.

I am running for a second mandate in the FC because there is still much work to be done, and I would like to continue contributing. After having built a solid theoretical base in the PC3, I would now like to further develop the more practical experience of the FPF and help bring the global dimension of federalism to the core of JEF’s priorities. As Europeans, we often focus on internal issues, sometimes losing sight of where the world is heading, and how people outside the Union perceive us. The global network of federalists it could be a key resource in this. At the same time, as Europeans we must also commit to decolonizing our thinking through a constant process of critical reflection. Only by doing so can we build a genuine strategy that gives soul to our inherently internationalist political vision. For this reason, I believe that a TF entirely dedicated to this action, working in close cooperation with the EB and PC3, is important to begin this ambitious work.

In my opinion, the priorities for JEF in the next mandate should be both political and strategical. On the political side, I believe we should focus on treaty reform as a key step toward the federal project. At the same time, I believe that including the European people in these struggles is fundamental. That means working on citizen engagement and building a Europe capable of tackling socio-economic inequalities.
From a strategic perspective, I believe we must focus on arriving outside our bubble, supporting our sections in their efforts to become more representative of society and to reach people regardless of their socio-economic and cultural background.

I believe the three PC are essential. I also think that all three PCs should address the issue of overproduction of resolutions. The focus should shift more towards involving members in the drafting process and ensuring proper external dissemination once resolutions are approved. As for the TF I believe they should be created according to the political project that will emerge from Congress, starting from the international action.

+39 3296343867 (Whatsapp)

I’m Michael, a 4th year law student at the University of Malta and Trainee at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. Throughout my life in JEF, I have served as Projects Officer, then President of JEF Malta, working to strengthen youth participation in democracy and promote European integration through advocacy.

I’ve had the opportunity to take on several leadership roles, currently serving as Director General of Europe’s most successful simulation, Model European Union Strasbourg, Director for Civic Engagement and later Public Relations Officer within the Maltese National Youth Council (KNŻ), and Executive Secretary of the MaltMUN Society. My involvement with the European Union extends through my role as EU Careers Ambassador for UM for 2 years, and represent Maltese youth as a YEA and as a One Young World Ambassador.

My journey in youth engagement began with the National Student Travel Foundation, where I served as Project Lead Coordinator, organising 3 editions of the Mini European Assembly. I also contributed to the Law Students’ Society as Leisure Officer, later serving as Secretary-General for MaltMUN 2024, handling both logistics and academic for Malta’s largest MUN, having chaired and organised over 10 MUNs beforehand.

Through these experiences, I’ve developed a deep commitment to fostering youth participation and European unity.

I am running for FC Member because I believe strongly in the power of
capacity building to strengthen our organisation from within. My experience
leading JEF Malta has shown me how strategic planning and a focus on
member engagement can completely transform a section. When I took on
the role of President, we were experiencing a decline in active
membership, but through targeted outreach and improved internal
communication, we managed to double our active membership within a few
months.

I believe JEF should prioritise sustainability and especially building on our
existing core to drastically improve our membership situation. Our strength
lies in our members and sections, and to ensure the long-term impact of
our movement, we must invest in capacity building. This means providing
sections with the tools, training, and guidance they need to grow effectively,
ensuring that even smaller/newer sections can thrive.

JEF should maintain key Political Commissions on Democracy and Rule of
Law, Foreign and Security Policy, and Environment. I suggest
strengthening the Task Force on Capacity Building with Section
Development to support sustainable growth.

@gatt.michael (Instagram), +356 79548715

I am Visvaldis Knuts Bērziņš, currently serving my second term as President of JEF Latvia. Over the past four years, I have worked to build a section that is visible. Under my leadership, our membership has doubled, our advocacy efforts have expanded nationally and internationally, and we have brought youth perspectives directly to ministries, embassies and EU institutions. JEF Latvia has also contributed to the Ministry of the Interior’s working group on NGO crisis response, reflecting our commitment to strengthening democratic resilience during hybrid threats. My work in the Parliament of Latvia has provided first-hand experience in legislative processes, coalition-building and rule-of-law issues that are essential for advancing a federal Europe.

I am running because Europe is facing hybrid threats that do not respect national borders. Growing up in the Baltics, I understand that peace is not a given – it is safeguarded through unity and collective action. Disinformation, coercion and cyberattacks must be treated as European threats requiring a European response. My goal is to ensure that JEF acts as one strategic organisation capable of anticipating challenges, and shaping policy, not as separate national sections reacting individually. Federalism must be understood not as ideology, but as a necessity for protecting democracy.

In the next two years, JEF must prioritise Europe’s resilience. We are in a hybrid war where institutions, media and trust are under attack. JEF should lead efforts to strengthen European defence cooperation, counter foreign influence and promote democratic integrity. Our organisation must be disciplined, building strategies across sections and amplifying our common voice.

For the 2025-2027 mandate, I strongly support the creation of a working group on European defence and hybrid threats. This group should address information warfare, cyberattacks and the erosion of democratic institutions, drawing from the experience of both frontline and Western sections. In addition, JEF should deepen engagement with Ukraine and Eastern Partnership countries through a structure focused on long-term integration and security cooperation. When one member state is targeted, Europe is targeted. Our response must be united.

+371 28384485 | @vkberzins (IG)

My name is Francesca, and I have been a member of JEF Netherlands for the past two years, serving as Secretary General of JEF Maastricht and later as the International Officer of JEF Netherlands.
My JEF journey began during my master’s in European Public Policy at Maastricht University. Starting from a small local section, I encountered challenges such as limited capacity and funding, which motivated me to strengthen our network in facing these difficulties starting from the national level. I promoted active engagement through various initiatives: implementing the JEF NL Statutes to establish a Secretariat, organising a visit to the European Parliament with a federalist MEP, and activating a cross-sections workshop on DUP.
Beyond JEF, my studies and work experiences have deepened my understanding of EU governance and policy-making: interning within the department of European funding for the local public administration and now working at a tech start-up focused on smart cities solutions.

I am running for the FC to co-chair the Task Force on Capacity-Building as I believe it is crucial for JEF’s growth. Having experienced the same struggles, I want to help sections strengthen their capacity, attract members, manage resources effectively, and find funding opportunities. I aim to continue regular trainings, strengthen knowledge through online seminars and masterclasses, contribute to the Project Accelerator, and expand the twinning marathon. Above all, capacity-building activities and priorities should reflect section’s specific needs.

In the next two years, JEF should grow its presence in the EU and international sphere, strengthen its ties to other federalist movements, and collaborate with other youth organisations. It’s important to grow our impact and be at the forefront in battling the erosion of the Rule of Law while advancing advocacy efforts for a more united EU, starting from the Treaty Reform.
It is important to strengthen collaboration and communication between the FC and EB in pursuing common goals and facilitating communication with all sections to ensure their participation and empowerment.

I support the existing PCs and TFs, and I believe it’s important to strengthen them, making sure to improve their visibility and supporting their actions. The TFs Capacity Building, Awareness-Raising Against Nationalism, and Diversity & Empowerment clearly target some of the most pressing issues that JEF should actively keep on working with a systematic approach.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/francesca-marini-3651b022b

I am Elisabed Chachava and I joined JEF four years ago after moving from Tbilisi to Berlin. I started by organising a panel discussion in co-operation with the European Parliament and the European Commission Representation Office. Afterwards, I focused on civic education, co-organising simulations of the European Parliament and leading school workshops. My passion for international affairs brought me to the board of JEF Berlin-Brandenburg, first as Vice President (International Officer) and then as Co-President.

I am running for the Federal Committee to become Co-Chair of the Task Force on Empowerment and Diversity. I intend to focus primarily on LGBTQIA+ rights, because this topic is very important to me as a queer person. I want to promote open-mindedness and being inclusive of all minority and underrepresented groups in our discussions. I have worked in collaboration with Tiberia, who is also running as Co-Chair of this Task Force to focus on women’s rights. Our goals for this Task Force align perfectly.

Within this Task Force, we plan to offer various workshops focused on empowerment. We want national, regional, and local sections to feel free to approach us at any time. In addition, we aim to organise an in-person training session in Empowerment and Diversity, with the goal of exchanging the best practices to diversify our membership and become more inclusive. It would be a huge honour for me to be able to contribute to making JEF an even safer and more welcoming space for young people from all backgrounds.

My vision for the next two years of JEF includes strong advocacy and meaningful exchanges, but also ensuring we have the solid foundations for the further expansion of our organisation. I would like to see JEF expand by strengthening co-operation between sections, increasing communication throughout the different sections of the organisation, and engaging more young people from different backgrounds with our federalist principles.

I believe that all of the three Political Commissions we have are still highly relevant and should continue in the next mandate. However, I strongly believe that people do their best work when they engage in areas they are truly passionate about. Therefore, the Task Forces that I think are most important to continue are Empowerment and Diversity, Capacity Building, Civic Education, and Advocacy. I also strongly support the proposal to create a Task Force that can tackle the rise of the far-right.

Elisabed.chachava@jef-bb.de

I come from a Greek Island, Skiathos, but am born and raised in Athens and a Berliner by choice. After a BA in International & European studies and a MA in Democratic Education & Social Competences, I am now a student again, this time in law.

I have been a passionate JEFer since I was 18 years old, in Greece, France, Germany and Europe-wide. After being JEF Europe’s treasurer the last 2 years and the International Officer of JEF Greece for 6 years, I look forward to work for our movement from this exciting position.

Privately: I am passionate about languages and history, and I believe profoundly in ecofeminism and constructivism. I love cooking and baking, while I am an aspiring plant daddy. I aim to learn how to make my own clothes, so I am learning to knit and plan to take up sowing.

I was involved in our campaigns EurHope, DemocracyUnderPressure & #DontTouchMySchengen. It was an honour to join the Ventotene Forum, while I represented us in activities of the Agency for Fundamental Rights, the Council of Europe, WFM, UEF and the European Parliament. I also oversaw our budget and fundraising, leaving us with a positive financial year, higher equity, and an operating grant that can be used everywhere in Europe and focus on youth.

In our FC I would like to co-chair TF Civic Education, my field of expertise. Firstly, I am convinced that we must be supporting our advocacy with at least 1 activity of civic education per campaign. Secondly, I want us to (re)create a so-called bank of ideas (for training methods, activities with transferability potential, and project concepts notes), as well as have an archive of implemented activities. Furthermore, I will pursue a JEF website dedicated to our civic education. Lastly, I will seek funding for trainings for trainers, to render JEF membership even more useful for the CV of JEFers.

We must maintain our activist character, and continue our advocacy on enlargement, reforms, and Europe as a force for good in global politics. However, the following topics should be more central in our work for peace, democracy and rule of law:

1.Sustainability
2.Mental health of youth
3. Diversity

As an FC member, I will also push for JEF Europe to amend its statutes, which comes with a legal obligation to hold the European Congress in Belgium. Please, let us exchange our ideas about the statute’s potential for improvement.

Among others, we need a WG Amendment of Statutes & Political Platform, for the procedure’s preparation.

+4915258401059

I am Ani Sulikashvili, Vice President and International Officer of JEF Georgia. In this role, I coordinate international cooperation, manage EU-funded projects, and create platforms connecting youth from member, candidate and partner countries. This work has shown me how to turn enthusiasm into meaningful participation and build real partnerships across regions.

Professionally, I have worked in both public and private sectors in project management, communication, and policy implementation.

I am running for the Federal Committee to help JEF become more inclusive, responsive and politically impactful. My goal is to strengthen the bridge between national sections and European-level decision-making, ensuring that every member and region is represented.

My priorities are to:
Deepen JEF’s engagement with enlargement and neighborhood policies;
Promote equality and well-being through initiatives on gender balance and mental health;
Connect grassroots activism with European policymaking so members’ experiences guide JEF’s direction.

I want to contribute to a Federal Committee that listens to all sections and translates our federalist values into daily work.

Over the next two years, JEF should reinforce its role as a youth voice for democracy, unity, and enlargement. Enlargement must be treated not only as a political process but as a shared transformation that strengthens peace and civic resilience.

Internally, JEF should continue investing in participation, leadership development, and mental well-being, because strong advocacy starts with empowered members. Federalism for me is not an abstract idea. It’s a culture of inclusion, accountability and solidarity.

PC on Enlargement and External Affairs: to deepen engagement with neighborhood and enlargement policies.
PC on Institutional Affairs: to reinforce advocacy for democracy, transparency and participation.
Task Force on Mental Health and Inclusion: to promote well-being and equal access to leadership.
Task Force on Climate and Sustainability: to keep environmental responsibility and youth-led climate action central to JEF’s agenda.

+995599443110

@ani_sulikashvili

I’m Nikos, a 24 year old Member of the JEF Europe EB, who balanced my last two years at JEF Europe with working for an MEP and now with my role as an EU Policy Coordinator in the Maltese Foreign Ministry. Having started out with JEF Malta in 2019, I can now say that I know this network well, and humbly wish to continue playing a role in its growth.

In contrast to the far-right, which thrives on fear of the other, and defenders for the status quo who fear change itself, JEF’s political recipe is one that’s not just simply a generation ahead, but one that offers a hopeful narrative built on positive peace, rule of law, and human rights. This mission has offered me real-world tools to fight for a more equitable society where all people are treated as ‘autonomous living beings.’

It is in this context that I wish to present myself as a candidate for the FC, and as a candidate for Presidium. I firmly believe that my experience within the EB, as well as my 4 years of activism within a small section, provides me with the necessary experience to Chair real political debate, to facilitate compromise, and yes – to turn a page and foster more trust between the statutory organs, so we can present ourselves to the world as Europe’s foremost advocates for a federalist coalition of common sense.

If elected, I would wish work with my two other colleagues on three key trust-building priorities:

BRIDGE-BUILDING: Facilitation is not just about allocating speaking time, but about ensuring that lively debate results in smart compromises which don’t just work for the majority, but consider and weigh the needs of all the Network.

OPEN & TRANSPARENT COMMUNICATION: The Presidium must remain the foremost body to push for communication between the different statutory bodies, while respecting any legal and statutory limitations.

ATTENDANCE AT EB MEETINGS: So as to ensure that we are one Team JEF, I pledge that I would exercise my statutory right to attend EB meetings, ideally in rotation with my other colleagues. This is a necessity to build one Team JEF where EB and FC work hand-in-hand.

I will work to see that PCs/TFs/WGs reflect the bottom-up consensus of the FC.

We are federalists, not proponents of recreating the same problems of the nation state at Union level. Therefore, I am in agreement with initiatives taken by fellow FC candidates to focus on tackling the far-right, and international action.

I pledge to continue my involvement in the Federalist Peace Forum.

@nikoschircop

(+356) 79892756

My name is Valentin, I’m 24 years old. I study History, Politics and Law in Berlin and work as a journalist. My JEF journey started in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic as part of a small group that started to rebuild our Berlin section after the lockdowns. From 2021 to 2023 I was Vice-President of JEF Berlin-Brandenburg in charge of Civic Education. For the past two years, I have been Co-Chair of JEF Germany’s Federal Committee, chairing our quarterly meetings and representing our 14 regional sections vis-à-vis the national Board. In this role, I also co-chaired the Federal Congress of UEF Germany in 2024 and 2025.

The FC is where federalism comes to life: JEFers from all of Europe come together to shape the policies and strategies that move us towards our European Federation. As Co-President of JEF Germany’s FC, I have gained valuable experience in consensus-building, chairing meetings through complicated debates, and managing disputes constructively. That is why, if elected to the FC, I would like to contribute to its work as a member of the Presidium. Over the last mandate we have seen a breakdown of trust, notably between FC and EB, but also between sections. I want to help to rebuild this trust.

Diversity is our biggest strength. The FC is the place where we build the bridges between our sections, different political and personal backgrounds to work on our shared vision and ideas. If elected, I would aim to build a team spirit and an atmosphere that ensures constructive debates where every opinion can be heard properly. This implies good and direct communication within the FC and with the EB. I would make sure that the FC is represented at every EB meeting by a member of the FC Presidium to strengthen trust between the two bodies, improve information flow and increase transparency. The FC should, at all times, be aware of the developments relevant to the work and future of JEF.

In planning the coming mandate, I believe two aspects should be reflected in the FC’s decisions on PCs and Task Forces: 1. In recent years, JEF has found itself operating in an increasingly hostile political environment, marked by attacks, populist or extremist governments, and funding cuts. The FC can help to develop strategies and tools for sections and members to deal with these circumstances. 2. In my experience, many local and regional sections feel that JEF Europe is distant and offers little added value to their work on the ground. While this is also a matter of communication within sections, I think PCs and TFs should be more visible to the membership in order to play their part in making JEF Europe more approachable – e.g. by more actively engaging local sections for their input.

+49 1520 3317559 / valentin.petri@jef.de /@valentin.petri

Since joining JEF in 2019, I have served as President of JEF Madrid, Vice President of JEF Spain, Board Member of the International Section of Europæisk Ungdom (JEF Denmark), and for the past year, President of JEF Spain. I have a background in Economics and Finance and currently work on investments in developing countries on behalf of the Danish government. My previous experience includes roles at the OECD, the German Development Agency (GIZ), and fundraising work with large international NGOs.

I deeply identify as a European federalist. My priority has always been to strengthen our movement and promote federalism.
Under my presidency of JEF Spain, the section has become the fastest growing in JEF Europe. In 9 months, we doubled our membership to around 700 members, created 2 new local sections, and restructured internal processes to make the section more professional and efficient. We launched 7 new Task Forces, built strong international partnerships, and made JEF Spain the second most followed Instagram section, reaching around 150,000 monthly views.
I am now eager to contribute at the European level in the FC Presidium or TF Capacity Building, with the goal of strengthening collaboration, building trust, and ensuring our organization becomes strong and resilient.

At a time of political polarization, democratic backsliding, and rising populism, JEF Europe must be united, stable, and forward-looking. In the next mandate, I believe our focus should be:
• Reinforcing collaboration and trust through transparent and regular communication between the EB, FC, Secretariat, and national sections. The FC Presidium should consistently attend EB meetings, and the EB should provide clear and frequent updates, ensuring the active use of communication channels with Presidents and IOs.
• Enhancing visibility and communication by strengthening social media presence and outreach
• Boosting membership and engagement by supporting sections with retention and membership growth

While the FC will decide the final structure of TFs and PCs, all sections should ensure active participation in PC meetings, which currently have limited attendance. Given the financial challenges and expected funding cuts, I propose creating a TF on Fundraising to diversify and secure new funding. TF Communications should be reactivated to strengthen outreach, and TF Capacity Building should support sections facing membership decline and help develop leadership at the local level.

IG / Linkedin: lauraserranofolguera

My name is Aitana, I’m from Alicante, and with my Spanish-British background, a strong sense of European belonging has always felt natural to me. Brexit made that identity, and the value of federalism, even clearer. I have been an active member of JEF Spain for almost three years, taking part in the organising team for EUCO Madrid 2023 and for JEF Spain’s 40th anniversary. For over a year, I have served in JEF Spain’s Federal Committee as Project Coordinator and as leader of the Fundraising & Projects Task Force, gaining experience in project design, funding, and event management.
Beyond JEF, my vocation lies in environmental policy, holding a specialisation in European Climate Law. I have worked with SEO/BirdLife, Spain’s oldest and most respected nature conservation NGO and the national partner of BirdLife Europe. There, I gained first-hand experience in EU environmental policymaking and in the use of scientific data to influence European regulations and conservation initiatives.

My motivation comes from believing that European youth must have a stronger influence in EU decision-making. We are also facing a darker political moment, with the far right gaining ground and European values increasingly questioned. I feel a responsibility to step up and help JEF remain a bold and principled voice. I am also motivated to see JEF become more outspoken on environmental and biodiversity protection. Climate action is essential, but Europe’s transition must also safeguard ecosystems, and youth voices should be central in this debate.

My vision for JEF is an organisation that increases its impact through stronger alliances with like-minded civil society and youth organisations. At the same time, there is great untapped potential within JEF itself. Our sections have skills and creativity that are not yet fully shared. JEF Europe should encourage more horizontal cooperation, joint campaigns, and easier resource-sharing, moving from isolated efforts to a culture of partnership.

I believe environmental governance should become a clearer priority within PC2 Internal European Affairs, which I am most eager to join. Recent attempts to weaken EU environmental standards show how urgent this work is. That way JEF could monitor rollbacks, build bridges with environmental NGOs and scientific communities, and empower young people to engage meaningfully in Europe’s ecological transition.

+34 633 61 53 63

For the past six years, I’ve dedicated most of my free time to promoting the federalist idea among Bulgarian youth and society. I joined JEF Bulgaria in 2019 while studying European Studies, and the organization quickly became the main driver of my personal and professional growth. In 2022, I became President and worked to revitalize the section after the pandemic, restoring activities, attracting members, joining the Bulgarian National Youth Council, making networks with local organization and creating a team. In 2024, I became International Officer to strengthen our European presence, build project partnerships, and lead Bulgaria’s successful bid to host the 2025 Spring Federal Committee, the first JEF Europe statutory event ever in the country. I hold a master’s in European projects and currently work as an intramuros in the European Commission Representation in Sofia.

Recent years have shown how fragile democracy is across Europe. Authoritarianism, corruption, and apathy are growing, while many young people lose faith in politics. Through JEF Bulgaria, we worked to rebuild trust, engage students through debates and school visits to show federalism as a practical idea, not a niche one. I would like to continue my work on a European level for other sections. Since freedom of speech is being challenged, and political apathy risks becoming the norm, we must help citizens regain confidence to participate and act.

I see the Federalist Academy as a key platform for empowering youth and strengthening civic participation. Democracy must be learned and practiced daily, through cooperation between sections and the exchange of ideas. As an FC member, I want to listen to sections, understand their challenges, and work with the EB to turn them into action. We must remind people of Europe’s value and our shared duty to defend it.
Today, JEF faces both external attacks and internal challenges. Our task is to give our members and youth the courage in an uncertain world. JEF cannot reverse the trends alone but can help unite Europeans around common values and practical solutions. Europe has always progressed through crises; the next two years should be about listening to citizens’ hopes and preparing for the Europe they deserve.

I believe the current structure of Political Commissions (PCs) and Task Forces/Working Groups is already solid and reflects the priorities and expertise that JEF has developed over the years. The existing PCs cover the core pillars of our political work, democracy, foreign affairs, and internal European affairs, and they provide a balanced framework for both long-term federalist advocacy and reactions to current events.
I also think the Communication Task Force could be combined with an Event Planning one, creating better coordination and offering stronger support to all national sections, from the smallest to the largest.

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