INTERVIEW WITH ARIANA ÇAKA, YOUTH AND EUROPE

Interviewed: Lorik Idrizi,
BIRC Institute

Ariana Çaka is the Programme Manager for Civil Society, Media, and Youth at the European Union Office in Kosovo.
In this interview for the BIRC Institute, she speaks about the role of young people in the European integration process, the challenges they face, and the ways in which regional cooperation can be strengthened.

BIRC: Do young people have sufficient information about the European integration process?

Ariana ÇAKA: Considerable efforts have been made to ensure young people in Kosovo are well-informed about the European integration process. This is achieved through a variety of platforms, including educational institutions where courses on European studies are offered, as well as workshops and seminars organized by NGOs and EU-funded projects. Online resources such as the EU’s official website and dedicated portals provide extensive material, while social media campaigns by the European Union in Kosovo engage youth on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. EU Houses in Prishtina and North Mitrovica serve as resource hubs for informational materials, and exchange programs like Erasmus+ allow young individuals to experience European integration firsthand. Additionally, youth networks and organizations, such as the Young European Ambassadors initiative, actively disseminate information and engage young people in discussions and activities related to the EU.

BIRC: What are the main obstacles preventing young people from engaging in the processes of Europeanization and democratization?

Ariana ÇAKA: While challenges remain, much progress has been made in reducing obstacles for young people. Initiatives aimed at increasing youth representation in decision-making processes and improving civic education have significantly empowered young individuals. By fostering inclusive environments and promoting active citizenship, young people are now more engaged and better equipped to participate in Europeanisation and democratisation efforts.

BIRC: How can interregional cooperation among young people be improved in the context of European integration?

Ariana ÇAKA: Interregional cooperation among young people is of great importance for the EU and other organisations working in the region. I recently participated in the “Youth in Focus: High-Level Coordination Meeting” in Tirana, where our continuous support for regional programmes of youth was reaffirmed and new opportunities for collaboration were discussed.

Programs promoting student exchanges, joint projects, and cultural events have successfully connected youth across regions. Continued support for digital tools and networking opportunities will further enhance these relationships, strengthening the sense of a shared European identity.

BIRC: Are current EU youth programs (such as Erasmus+) sufficient to promote Europeanization in the Balkans?

Ariana ÇAKA: EU youth programs like Erasmus+, eTwinning, and Young Cell Scheme, have been quite successful in promoting Europeanisation in the Balkans. By providing young people with opportunities for international study and collaboration, these programs have expanded horizons and fostered a stronger European community. While there is always room for growth, the positive impact and reach of these programs are clear and encouraging.

BIRC: How can we effectively counter disinformation and anti-EU propaganda affecting young people?

Ariana ÇAKA: Efforts to combat disinformation and anti-EU propaganda have shown positive results. Initiatives that focus on enhancing media literacy and critical thinking skills among young people are gaining traction, empowering them to discern credible information. Several EU-funded projects have trained youth and other target groups and have helped establish trusted sources of information, reducing the impact of misleading narratives.

BIRC: Do you think that Euroscepticism exists among young people and what drives it?

Ariana ÇAKA: Numerous initiatives are underway to foster a positive perception of the EU and highlight its benefits. Educational campaigns have been launched to demystify the EU integration process and showcase the tangible benefits of EU membership, such as economic opportunities and cultural exchange. By organising youth forums and dialogue events, young people are encouraged to voice their concerns and engage directly with policymakers, thereby fostering a sense of inclusion and agency. EU-supported programs like Erasmus+ and various cultural projects are promoted to expose young people to the diversity and unity of European cultures, helping to build a more interconnected European identity. Furthermore, collaborative efforts are being made with local youth organisations to counter misinformation and provide fact-based narratives about the EU, effectively addressing misunderstandings and biases that fuel scepticism. These proactive steps are intended to turn scepticism into informed engagement, helping young people see the value and possibilities within the European Union.