Alexandre Gomes, 22, has been elected the new leader of JPP Youth (Juntos Pelo Povo), succeeding Jéssica Teles, a current Member of the Legislative Assembly of Madeira. A law graduate and master's student, Gomes aims to increase youth participation in regional politics and address their concerns.
His mandate priorities include mobility, housing, higher education, employment, and the cost of living. Gomes believes it's crucial to restore trust in the political system, countering the notion of political homogeneity and encouraging youth engagement. "Politics cannot be judged by the worst examples," he stated, emphasizing that democracy, despite its flaws, is the best system for collective future decisions.
JPP Youth proposes concrete measures, such as a 59-euro subsidy for young residents to travel between Madeira and the mainland. In higher education and science, they call for increased support for displaced students, particularly in housing, and greater investment in the University of Madeira, research, and innovation.
Another key challenge identified is retaining and attracting talent in the region, which requires solutions in housing, employment, and cost of living. Gomes advocates for a merit-based labor market that values qualifications, acknowledging that unaffordable housing and rising living costs make it difficult for young people to stay on the island.
