REAL DECISION-MAKING: YOUTH AS ARCHITECTS OF DEMOCRACY
Author: Lorik Idrizi
One of the core challenges of democracy remains the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes and, more broadly, their participation in democratic, institutional, and political life. Theoretically, youth participation in decision-making is a complex, multidimensional concept. It should not be seen as a one-off event but as a continuous process, implying that young people are involved in decisions that affect their social, economic, cultural, ecological, and political lives.
Youth as Active Citizens
A 2017 study by Anne Crowley and Dan Moxon, “New and Innovative Forms of Youth Participation in Decision-Making Processes”, published by the Council of Europe, emphasizes that youth participation goes beyond voting or candidacy. It extends into broader dimensions of active citizenship. According to the authors, participation involves the right, tools, space, and opportunity to engage in decision-making and activities that contribute to building a better society. This approach makes youth participation a fundamental element of democratic development.
Another key aspect is the creation of spaces where young people can express their opinions. Crowley and Moxon highlight that participation includes “spaces” for youth expression and opportunities for decision-makers to listen and consider these views.
The study notes that youth involvement matters for both individual-impact decisions, such as education or health, and collective decisions affecting wider communities, like housing projects or youth programs. Participation thus becomes an instrument for building more democratic, inclusive, and sustainable societies by integrating youth perspectives and energy into decision-making processes.
The Charter of Real Decision-Making
A central framework for youth inclusion in decision-making is the Revised European Charter on the Participation of Young People in Local and Regional Life, adopted by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Europe in May 2003. Building on experiences from the 1992 charter, it addresses emerging social challenges and underscores the need for real influence and engagement in public life.
The Charter defines youth participation as the ability to impact decisions and take part in activities that strengthen society. Its preamble emphasizes: “Participation and active citizenship imply having rights, tools, space, and support to influence decision-making and contribute to building a better society.” This vision requires local and regional authorities to create structures where youth can practice democracy, contributing to social cohesion and a culture of inclusion.
A significant section focuses on sectoral policies impacting young people’s daily lives. Authorities are encouraged to support sports, culture, social life, and creativity as key pathways for social cohesion and meaningful participation. Employment is also crucial, as youth exclusion from the labor market threatens civic engagement. The Charter recommends establishing employment centers, supporting youth entrepreneurship, and promoting social economy initiatives.
Urban planning and transport are highlighted as critical areas. “Young people must be included in housing and public transport policies, as mobility is essential for active participation in society,” the Charter states. Education is emphasized as a space to practice democracy, including student associations and school management involvement.
The Charter also promotes international mobility, cultural exchanges, and fostering a European youth identity. Health and gender equality are key areas for well-being and social integration. It emphasizes attention to rural areas to ensure youth access to basic services and stresses sustainable development, environmental protection, and combating violence, crime, and discrimination in all forms.
Tools and Structures for Youth Engagement
The Charter underlines mechanisms to ensure youth participation, including training in active citizenship, access to information, use of communication technologies, and promoting youth roles in media. Youth organizations, formal or informal, are recognized as vital actors amplifying youth voices. Authorities are encouraged to allocate budgets to support them, adhering to co-management principles, and to facilitate youth engagement in NGOs and political parties as avenues to influence democratic processes.
Institutional conditions for participation, such as youth councils, parliaments, and forums, are seen as essential for dialogue and real impact on policy. “These structures are not only mechanisms for representation but also training grounds for democratic life and public management,” the Charter emphasizes.
Energizing and Empowering Youth Voices
In North Macedonia, youth involvement in democratic life and local decision-making is critical. Despite formal participation limitations in the Polog region, theoretical frameworks and overarching guidelines remain essential for animating youth engagement according to their expectations and the imperative of empowering their voices.
The Voter Handbook for Young People, published by the State Election Commission of North Macedonia and the OSCE Mission in Skopje in 2021, stresses that youth can and should play a key role in shaping and transforming their society. “Active participation in democratic processes, as informed and responsible citizens, is one of the most effective ways to build a more sustainable and democratic society. Their energy, enthusiasm, and creative potential make youth voices an essential instrument for change, which must be heard when policies affecting them are made,” the handbook notes.
Youth participation is not limited to political party membership. It encompasses involvement at local, national, and international levels. Young people can influence youth councils, contribute to local strategies, vote, or run for decision-making positions. Active participation—as deputies, councilors, or municipal leaders—demonstrates the tangible power of youth to shape political processes.
Voting remains the most common form of conventional participation, and increasing youth turnout offers a real opportunity to integrate them into political life. The handbook emphasizes that youth participation is a strategic tool to strengthen democracy, ensure their voices are heard, and build a more sustainable society.
This analysis is funded by the European Union under the project Voices of Equality, Democracy for All, implemented by the Balkan Institute for Regional Cooperation – BIRC Tetovo. The project is a subgrant under EU Support for the Civil Society Resource Center – Phase 2, funded by the European Union. The content is the sole responsibility of the author and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the Civil Society Resource Center.