LocationsEU Support to Confidence Building in the Western Balkans
Youth from the Western Balkans: Together We Build Bridges of Trust
December 10, 2024
Photo: Jakov Simović
Belgrade, 10 December 2024 – An impactful message from the youth of the Western Balkans: that collaboration, understanding, and respect for diversity are essential for building lasting peace and improving life in the region, was one of the main impressions of the regional workshop for young people from the Western Balkans, held from 4 to 6 December in Belgrade. The workshop was organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with the support of the European Union.
“Great things can be achieved through cooperation. It’s important that we work on stronger connections and develop concrete steps for the future,” said Noli Osmani, a young activist from Debar.
Participants engaged in workshops and discussions to explore shared histories and learn how facts and open dialogue can help communities deal with the past.
“I am glad we faced the history of our region together. It’s neither black nor white but bloody red. We’ve gained the knowledge and tools to share the truth further. Now we have a community of like-minded people, and we must stay connected to spread what we’ve learned here,” said Ali Hadžifejzović from Sarajevo.
As many participants noticed, the workshop underscored the potential of youth to propel social cohesion in the region.
“Once again, I’ve seen how amazing young people in our region are and how much they can contribute to creating real peace based on understanding and respect,” emphasized Nedžla Kurtćehajić from Sarajevo.
Lazar Petrović from Niš added, “In all our differences, there must be mutual respect. Only by seeing each other as equals can we build trust and work towards a healthier future for us all.”
The Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, Plamena Halačeva, highlighted the role of youth as future political leaders in fostering a social atmosphere of trust and security that could bring more peace to the world.
“This is why the EU supports projects and activities like this one, encouraging young people to build a future based on truth, trust, and mutual respect. By coming together to face the challenges of the past and promote reconciliation, young people embody the core values on which the European Union stands.”
Participants from Sarajevo, Zagreb, Pristina, Podgorica, Belgrade, and other cities across the region spent the three-day workshop learning about the events in the former Yugoslavia. They had the opportunity to learn from historian Marijana Toma and researcher Nemanja Stjepanović from the UN Mechanism for Informing Communities Affected by Conflict. They discussed fact-checking in the public sphere with Istinomer’s executive editor, Milijana Rogač, and creating impactful social media advocacy campaigns from communications expert and influencer Nina Skočak. One of the most memorable moments for the 35 participants was the play “My Land: What Youth Think About Patriotism” performed by the Reflektor Theatre youth ensemble.
This workshop was part of the broader regional initiative “EU Support to Confidence Building in the Western Balkans”, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP. The project aims to enhance regional cooperation and reconciliation, support youth in promoting peace and dialogue, and strengthen trust among diverse communities.
