Europe Direct Soapbox Competition 2023

“There’s no such thing as a vote that doesn’t matter” - Barack Obama

In today’s turbulent times, it is more important than ever to build a better future by voting in the EU Parliament Elections.

This is the thirteenth year of the annual Europe Direct Information network Soapbox competition, and for the first time since 2019, the competition is once again happening in person! 

The Soapbox, with its origins in the turn of the last century and echoes of Speakers Corner in Hyde Park, London, is a perfect vehicle to showcase our proud tradition of public speaking across the country. The Europe Direct Soapbox competition is an annual autumn event, raising awareness locally and nationally of topical issues in Europe and providing people with the opportunity to have their say.

This year the theme for the soapbox, ahead of the European Parliament Elections in 2024, is “There’s no such thing as a vote that doesn’t matter”. This is an exciting year for the competition, as it has returned to being held in person for the first time since 2019. Nine regional competitions are being held in two categories, 16 & Under and 17 & Over, drawing a host of participants of all ages, backgrounds and stages in life. 

Each Europe Direct will run a regional event, and the winners from each region will then go on to compete in the National Final in the Royal College of Physicians Dublin on Monday 27th November 2023. Regional winners receive a prize of an iPad, sponsored by the European Commission Representation in Ireland. From the regional finals, the sixteen winning entries will qualify for the Grand Final. Both 16 & Under and 17 & Over successful candidates will be competing for overall prizes sponsored by the European Commission Representation in Ireland. 

Soapbox 2023