What is a Councillor from Bétera doing in Brussels?

I travelled to Brussels on the weekend of 14 November 2025 to attend the final meeting of the Intergenerational Fairness Citizens’ Panel. The EU Local Councillors Network invited members to join as observers. I represented my hometown, Bétera, in the province of Valencia. This experience introduced us to Citizens’ Panels, which I will disseminate and promote in my town.

For me, the experience revolves around two ideas: listening to people and thinking about the future for the next generations. I shared my thoughts with my neighbours on social media. I believe Europe becomes stronger when Europe listens to its citizens. These panels give diverse people a chance to meet. They discuss and suggest ideas directly to EU decision-makers.

And, as an observer, this is exactly the feeling I had during the sessions. 150 citizens of all ages gathered to debate in an incredibly cooperative environment. They came from everywhere in Europe, fighting for their ideas to be heard.

Debates organised in small groups worked well. Participants shared their ideas with help from involved moderators, ensuring everyone spoke. My big challenge was the language barrier, but interpreters bridged the gap. The variety of languages and cultures shapes Europe.

I was surprised as grateful to briefly discuss with Commissioner Glenn Micallef. He ensured everyone was heard, gathering all ideas. I often tell my friends and family about how he invited us to record a video. He mentioned Spanish and Valencian traditions like Bunyol’s Tomatina.  

Intergenerational fairness is a shared challenge. We must face it with responsibility and commitment. Bétera connects closely to this topic. For years, we organised study trips to Brussels for students aged 15 to 21 through REJUV-EU. They learn that Europe is part of their everyday lives. Older citizens also show great interest in these initiatives.

Together with the EU Local Councillors network, we have already organised our first dedicated day to the Citizen Panel Initiative. This time, the main topic is pollination. Agriculture drives our economy. We received materials from the EC and liaised with EU Law experts and Citizen Panel participants. High school students and associations form the audience for these sessions. Workshops will foster curiosity and involve them. I want to promote the idea that local improvements depend on the EU, but citizens can be part of the change.

European Citizens’ Panels bring together 150 randomly selected EU citizens to engage them in discussions on major topics impacting the life of society. In 2026, the first European Citizens’ Panel aims at engaging citizens on the topic of EU preparedness union strategy.