12 June 2026, Tirana, Albania – As part of the celebrations marking the 20th Anniversary of the Adriatic-Ionian Euroregion (AIE), a thematic seminar dedicated to youth engagement and Global Citizenship Education (GCE) brought together young leaders and civil society organisations from across the Western Balkans.
Representing 16 organisations from 5 IPA countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia) participants presented their local project as financed by the GearUP! project, all aimed at promoting awareness about Sustainable Development Goals and Global Citizenship among younger generations. Their initiatives addressed a wide range of issues linked to the SDGs, demonstrating how local action can contribute to sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development while strengthening civic participation and regional cooperation.
Participants examined barriers and opportunities in engaging local institutions, discussing issues such as access to decision-makers, recognition of youth contributions, and trust-building mechanisms. They also reflected on intergenerational dialogue, identifying common misunderstandings, complementary strengths, and successful examples of collaboration between younger and older generations.
A further focus of discussion entailed assessing the capacities needed for young people to become more effective changemakers. Participants identified priorities including skills development, mentoring opportunities, stronger networks, communication tools, access to institutions, organisational support, and safe spaces for participation.
The seminar confirmed that meaningful youth participation is essential for achieving the SDGs and fostering inclusive and resilient societies. It also demonstrated the value of Global Citizenship Education in empowering young people to address local and global challenges while strengthening democratic participation and social cohesion.
Through the GearUP! project the Euroregion continues its long-standing commitment in building concrete opportunities of youth engagement committed to sustainable development, regional cooperation, and European values. The discussions held in Tirana reinforced a shared message: empowering young people today is an investment in a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable future for the entire Adriatic-Ionian region.
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