Brussels Model European Union 2016 is an international debating competition that aims to sensitise Europe’s youth about the European project and to promote the participation of young people in European democratic life. The first edition was attended by over 140 young people from Europe and abroad, mainly students. Brussels Model European Union increases dialogue and cultural exchange by organising an annual international simulation of the European Union’s decision making process.Participants gather in a simulation of European politics and debate pressing topics of the EU agenda, taking on the role of Member of the European Parliament, Head of State, Minister in The Council, or journalist. As such, they incarnate the functions of real policy makers and encounter all the difficulties and necessary efforts to make democracy work. By doing so they explore and develop soft skills like negotiation, diplomatic language, public speaking and learn about Europe through intercultural dialogue. On the long term we believe that this contributes to a more politically-aware generation, as well as provides an exceptional way to shape the leaders of tomorrow, be it on a local or global level. Additionally, Brussels MEU provides long-term structural benefits to EU institutions due to a better informed and a more participative population. A population with improved knowledge of its institutions brings the institutions closer to its people.