Low level of participation of young people in public life at the local level is recognized by institutions, the civil society and young people themselves. Encouraging critical thinking and directing young people to launch initiatives are priorities for the whole society, according to the Research and assessment pertaining to youth and youth perceptions/needs in 15 local self-governments.

The research was conducted within the Regional Program of Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 2 (ReLOaD2), a project aiming at empowering young people to get involved in decision-making and improve their economic situation. In order to better understand the needs and habits of young people, the research covered a whole set of issues important for the life and engagement of young people in the 15 municipalities participating in the project within five clusters.