Monaco’s future changemakers took centre stage on Wednesday, May 7 as the 18th edition of the Conseil Économique, Social et Environnemental des Jeunes came to a close with a formal session inside the CESE chamber. The student-led initiative, established in 2007 in partnership with the Department of National Education, Youth and Sports, gives secondary school pupils a chance to engage directly with public life and policy in the Principality.
This year’s event was particularly meaningful, with Her Excellency Yvette Lambin Berti attending as patron. Lambin Berti was instrumental in the creation of the CESE des Jeunes 18 years ago, and her presence at this milestone session underscored the project’s enduring impact. Joining her were CESE President Caroline Rougaignon-Vernin, Vice-Presidents Thierry Leray and Christine Giolitti, National Education Director Jean-Philippe Vinci, school leaders, and teachers from the participating institutions: Lycée Albert Ier, FANB, and Rainier III.
Over the past year, 39 students worked in teams to investigate topics ranging from environmental sustainability to public health. They held meetings with experts across sectors, gaining insights that informed their final proposals, which were formally presented during the session. Among the adopted measures were a call to reduce light pollution in Monaco’s railway station galleries, a proposal to make first-aid training compulsory in secondary schools, a plan to link MonaBike usage with charitable fundraising events, and a push to create a dedicated “Smart Water Day” to encourage responsible water use across the Principality.
These four proposals will now be submitted to Monaco’s national authorities for review. With several previous CESE des Jeunes initiatives already implemented — including the creation of the City Stade on the Esplanade des Pêcheurs, rain garden pilot projects, and job-dating events — there is real optimism that this year’s contributions could also lead to concrete action.
As the session closed, the young councillors left with more than just certificates. They carried the experience of participating in democracy — and the hope that their ideas will help shape the Monaco of tomorrow.
