Empowering Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust

Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality, and Trust is a two-year initiative that aims to empower young people in the Western Balkans, to actively engage in constructive narratives, strengthen intercultural dialogue, promote inclusion, and gender equality, and foster mutual understanding and trust. 

This project is under the regional United Nations Initiative and receives financial support from the UN Secretary-General’s Peacebuilding Fund and involves collaboration between various stakeholders, including UNDP, UNFPA, UNESCO, UN Women, SIT, local ministries, municipal and youth councils, youth political parties, media, academic and cultural institutions, and civil society organizations.

This initiative is all about giving power to the youth – helping them understand and tackle issues like hate, discrimination, bullying, and more. Central to this initiative are camps that bring together youngsters from all over the region to spark conversations, ignite understanding, and foster transformation. 

One of the most significant aspects of this project is to raise awareness of the vital role of ‘Bystander Intervention’ in combating hate, discrimination, bullying, misogyny, and violence among young people in Kosovo. SIT in cooperation with UNDP has started implementing this project and until now there were targeted 58 youngsters from different communities.

Through interactive and educational workshops, the participants learn about the concept of Bystander Intervention and the transformative power of becoming proactive agents of change in their communities. During the project’s two-day camp, young change-makers from all over the region of Kosovo, engage in constructive discussions on several critical topics.

These topics include combatting hate speech, dismantling discrimination and bullying, fostering intercultural learning, and fighting misogyny. By providing a safe and open space for sharing personal experiences, perspectives, and innovative ideas, these camps facilitate a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Kosovar society.

I was motivated by the topics that were covered, I really liked it and I learned many new things, which I can share later with my friends. – said Shkëlzen

This was an opportunity to build new bridges between people, regardless of where we come from, our religions, or ethnic backgrounds. – said Omer

This term “Bystander Intervention” is important because it allows certain situations to be reduced. – said Blerina

By uniting enthusiastic and passionate young change-makers, this project is fostering a generation of empathetic leaders who promote diversity, respect, and inclusivity.