What’s up With the 2026-2031 Manifesto? Here’s where we’re at

Our manifesto is the foundation of everything we do in policy at the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP). It’s a document written by young people, for young people. The process of creating it has allowed us to grow both professionally and personally, while shaping a vision that can lead to meaningful change for Scotland’s youth.

Our manifesto is more than just a document – it’s the roadmap we use to achieve real results. For instance, our All Aboard campaign originated from a policy outlined in SYP’s 2016 Manifesto, which later contributed to the introduction of the Under-22s Free Bus Travel Scheme. Another major win was the incorporation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into Scottish law – a milestone achieved through our 'Right Here, Right Now' campaign.

The manifesto brings us together as Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYPs), fostering a sense of collective ownership in shaping the future of the young people we represent.

Earlier this year, MSYPs gathered data from young people across the country through a nationwide consultation. That data has now been carefully coded and grouped into five key themes:

• Accessible, Equitable and Inclusive Education
• Safe and Supportive Communities
• A Sustainable and Renewable Society
• A Fairer and Just Scotland
• Empowering Young People to Practise Their Rights

Together, these themes have shaped 31 policies that will be launched on the 6th of September. More in-depth pages on each policy – along with supporting materials for each theme – will also be published, so watch this space!

Now that we know what young people want Scotland to look like, it’s time to jump into action. We invite you to explore our 2026–2031 Manifesto and see how you can help turn these policies into real change for young people across Scotland.

If you’d like to get involved, please email Emily Beever, Head of Policy & Public Affairs, at emily.b@syp.org.uk.