Program description
Context:
The regional school for political development is designed for young people from Croatia, North Macedonia, and Serbia who are interested in promoting active citizenship and the green agenda. This project is conceived with the aim of establishing a regional educational program to promote active citizenship, political participation, and European values in the context of sustainable development and climate action.
In the face of dynamic global changes and challenges brought about by the climate crisis, young leaders are becoming key actors in shaping the future of their communities and societies. Today, youth, representing 16% of the world’s population, have an undeniable responsibility and a significant role in furthering societal development. Their perception of the importance of their contributions to society and their recognition as equal participants in decision-making processes represent key aspects of building an inclusive and cohesive society. Consequently, the active involvement of young people in addressing societal issues is imperative.
Young people are often the ones who will experience the long-term consequences of these problems, but they frequently encounter numerous obstacles when attempting to actively engage in decision-making processes. Some of the key issues include a lack of adequate knowledge, limited experience, a lack of opportunities and networks for effective involvement in relevant initiatives, and decision-making.
Therefore, the primary goal of this project is to provide young leaders with the necessary education, relevant experience, and encouragement to engage in collective initiatives at the local, national, and international levels aimed at addressing societal crises. Through this project, young people will develop a network of contacts that will be valuable in their work on the development and advocacy of green public policies. They will also be exposed to best practices and connected with experts, non-governmental organizations, and institutions, which will support their future active involvement.
Project goal:
Promoting active citizenship, political participation, and European values in the context of sustainable development and combating climate change through the establishment of a regional educational platform called the “Regional School for Young Political Leaders in Sustainable Development (RESPONDA)” for young people from Croatia, Serbia, and North Macedonia.
Target groups:
Young people from Croatia, North Macedonia, and Serbia, up to 30 years of age, who are active, eager to learn, and future leaders in the field of green policies. The total number of participants will be 30, with 10 from each country.
Work method:
Within the Regional School for Political Development, three seminars will be organized for young leaders, who, equipped with knowledge, experience, and practical skills, will work on the development and advocacy of green public policies. The seminars will be held in Croatia, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
A four-day visit to Croatia is planned, including a visit to Rijeka to learn about the practices of involving young people there, getting acquainted with local and national youth organizations and their work, as well as learning from the experiences of Krk Island and best practices in waste and water management, as well as involving young people in local environmental activities. Program participants will present and discuss their projects in front of local youth councils and high school students from Rijeka and Krk.
A four-day study visit to Brussels is also planned, which includes visits to the European Commission, the European Parliament, the European Council, the European Environmental Agency, the Council for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development of the EU, and non-governmental environmental organizations of the EU. Participants will present their projects to European officials and representatives of EU youth organizations.
Participants will work in groups of 7-8 with mentor support to create environmental initiatives.
Duration:
September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2025.
Partners:
Academy for Political Development
Center for Research and Policy Making
Donors:
European Commission
