On February 24, a discussion titled “The Surge of Populists into the European Parliament: How They Operate”, initiated by 10th-grade student Markas Kazlauskas, took place in the Assembly Hall of Klaipėda Lyceum. The event became a significant occasion not only for the school community but also in the broader context of youth political education. The discussion brought together students from grades 10–11 and gave them the opportunity to explore current political issues not through the lens of social media, but based on academic knowledge and factual information.
The discussion was led by political scientist Gabrielė Burbulytė–Tsiskarishvili, who presented the phenomenon of populism in contemporary politics to the students in a comprehensive and accessible way. She explained the origins of the term “populism,” its historical development, and how the idea of representing the “voice of the people” gradually turned into a tool for political manipulation. It was emphasized that many populist figures who strongly criticize the political “elite” seek to enter the European Parliament, and once they become its members, they often begin to use the same privileges they previously condemned.
A separate part of the discussion focused on why society—and especially voters—choose populist politicians. The political scientist highlighted the main elements of their appeal: the ability to exploit public distrust toward government institutions and elites, sensitivity to economic and social problems, charisma, eloquence, and the use of “simple, people-friendly language.” The discussion also addressed the use of emotions in the media, the emphasis on the inaction of political opponents, and the search for scapegoats, all of which help create the image of the “true defender of the people.”
Students listened with interest to what was described as the “entertaining” side of populism—the political show. The discussion recalled the circumstances in which the famous phrase “Už Lietuvą, vyrai” (“For Lithuania, men!”) by Petras Gražulis emerged, and considered how such episodes attract attention but can, over time, discredit serious politics. As another example, a public statement by former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson was mentioned, which turned into a kind of political performance. According to the political scientist, such tendencies open the door to even stronger populism and pose risks to the quality of democratic processes.
At the end of the discussion, a study conducted by the political scientist and her colleagues on Petras Gražulis was presented. The research revealed that voters place great importance on politicians maintaining constant and sincere communication with them and being able to listen to their concerns. At the same time, students were encouraged to think critically and ask themselves whether society is politically educated enough to evaluate not only politicians’ speeches but also their real actions.
During the event, participants also discussed the activities of populist figures such as Remigijus Žemaitaitis and the political protests emerging in society. It was emphasized that a conscious, fact-based approach is essential for understanding the essence of political processes and resisting emotional manipulation.
While analyzing the ambitions of populist forces to enter the European Parliament, students were introduced to how these trends could affect not only national politics but also the politics of the entire European Union. As an institution representing the interests of more than 400 million citizens, the European Parliament requires responsible decision-making. Therefore, young people’s ability to critically evaluate political actors is extremely important for the future of democracy.
