Berlin’s Left Party Proposes Youth Parliament With Real Political Power by 2026

Young Berliners could soon control their own budgets and shape local policies. The Left Party’s bold plan aims to rewrite how the city listens to its youth—before the next election.

, and Administrator

2026 January 11 . 5:03 AM

1 min read

In this image there are group of kids standing and smiling , and there are buildings, water, rocks,... — In this image there are group of kids standing and smiling , and there are buildings, water, rocks, road.

Left Party Demands a State Youth Parliament - Berlin’s Left Party Proposes Youth Parliament With Real Political Power by 2026

Berlin’s Left Party is pushing for a new state youth parliament to give young people a stronger voice in politics. The proposal comes as part of a wider plan to expand youth rights and resources across the city. Party leaders want the initiative in place by the next school year.

The party’s top candidate, Elif Eralp, is campaigning for Governing Mayor ahead of the 2026 state election. Her team argues that youth parliaments are essential for democracy and should exist in every Berlin district. These bodies would have real decision-making power, not just advisory roles.

Under the plan, each district would receive a legally protected youth budget. The money would be controlled directly by young representatives, with no interference from adult officials. The party also wants simpler rules for funding youth projects, making it easier for initiatives to get support. The Left Party insists that youth participation must be binding, not optional. Their proposals include clearer application processes and more resources for young people’s ideas. The goal is to ensure that every district has a formal system for youth involvement before the 2026 vote.

If approved, the youth parliament would launch in time for the next academic year. Districts would then be required to set up their own youth budgets and participation structures. The Left Party’s plan aims to create lasting channels for young Berliners to shape local decisions.