Youth participation is widely recognised as a cornerstone of democratic governance. Yet, across the Western Balkans, translating this commitment into meaningful and sustained engagement remains an ongoing challenge.
The Youth Observers (Y-O) Model project, implemented under the Erasmus+ Capacity Building in the Field of Youth programme, introduced an innovative approach by positioning young people not only as participants, but as active contributors to the policy development process.
The project followed a three-phase methodology. It began with a comprehensive capacity-building programme that equipped youth observers with knowledge and practical skills in policy analysis, leadership, and stakeholder engagement, complemented by study visits to public institutions and civil society organisations across the partner countries.
Building on this foundation, youth observers led national stakeholder consultations and facilitated multi-stakeholder roundtables, engaging public institutions, civil society organisations, and youth representatives in evidence-based discussions on key policy challenges.
The project culminated in the development of six youth-led policy papers addressing critical issues including mental health, youth employability, and political participation. Supported by experienced mentors, the young researchers led the entire process—from research design and stakeholder consultation to drafting recommendations and presenting their findings to relevant institutions.
Beyond its immediate outputs, the project contributed to strengthening youth leadership, reinforcing the capacity of partner organisations to engage young people in policymaking, and fostering dialogue between public institutions, civil society, and youth across the region.
You can download & read the document: Y-O-Model-Project-Summary-Report-1
Disclaimer: This document is produced in the framework of the ERASMUS-YOUTH-2023-CB: A cross regional predictive model for youth policy shaping – Youth Observers. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
