Youth engagement at the centre of discussions during NIRAS visits

A part of the Civica Mobilitas team accompanied colleagues from the Danish partner organisation NIRAS during their visit to civil society organisations implementing the “Youth Policies Tailored to Youth” project from 10th to 12th July 2024. They had the opportunity to speak with representatives from the lead organisation, Pro Lokal, and the Youth Centre Pelagonci “Ethnos”, the Youth Council of Prilep, and Empowering – Kruševo. The discussions with all four organisations focused on youth, their engagement, needs, and opportunities.

The team from the Youth Centre Pelagonci “Ethnos” highlighted issues related to fire protection and healthcare services in the region. They pointed out that the local population struggles to access healthcare, with a lack of ambulances and fire trucks. “Debrešte and the surrounding areas need efficient measures and strategies for fire prevention, especially during the summer months when the fire risk is higher,” they said. Through a project supported by the Swiss Government, via Civica Mobilitas, activities are underway to raise awareness among young people about the importance of fire prevention and improving healthcare services in the community. Edžeis Mustafa, president of “Ethnos”, emphasised the need for greater youth involvement, not only in these matters but in all issues affecting the community.

During the meeting with representatives of Pro Lokal, the discussion focused on public transport issues in the region. Young people from distant municipalities struggle to travel to and from Bitola after 7 p.m. as city buses stop running by that time. They stressed the importance of youth participation in public debates and initiatives to influence legislation that affects their rights and needs. “Youth engagement is key to local businesses and economic development in smaller municipalities, as without active youth involvement, the survival and growth of local businesses could be significantly limited,” the participants noted.

For the Youth Council of Prilep, youth policies are their top priority. Representatives of this organisation are working to involve more young people in activities that support municipalities, thereby contributing to the development of local policies.

Environmental protection is the main focus of Empowering Kruševo. They shared that in July, they will organise two focus groups to engage stakeholders in discussions about Kruševo’s future. Their goal is to improve waste sorting and find ways to prevent illegal dumpsites, which often cause fires during the summer months. They have requested the local authorities and the mayor to provide them with a new space for a youth centre. With their ambitious approach and dedication to environmental protection, the members are not only promoting ecological values but also demonstrating the importance of civic activism and influence. “Our mission is not only to preserve nature but also to create a community that cares for it,” said Zorica Kuzmanoska, president of the association and a high school teacher in Kruševo.

The NIRAS representatives were able to gain a deeper understanding of the project’s progress, the grantees’ activities, and the challenges they face.