The European Youth Parliament was founded by Laurent Grégoire (FR) and Bettina Carr-Allinson (NL), initially as a school project at the Lycée François-Ier in Fontainebleau, to the south of Paris.

The organisation experienced an enduring growth for the next ten years, its network counting an increasing number of National Committees and its activities becoming both larger and more numerous.

On November 4, 2004, however, the European Youth Parliament was reborn due to a mutual agreement between representatives of EYP's Board of National Committees, alumni and the Heinz-Schwarzkopf Foundation.

It encourages youths to take part in one of the largest platforms for debates, intercultural meetings, educational work and exchange of ideas among young Europeans.

Official EYP sessions take place in the form of an extended, interactive simulation of the deliberation of the European Parliament.

The program of many sessions also includes additional elements, such as Euroconcert, evenings dedicated to the national cuisine of each country (Eurovillage), as well as workshops, events and excursions.