FROM PODGORICA TO SKOPJE: YOUTH AS DRIVERS OF EUROPEAN CHANGE

In the context of regional integration, the term Europeanization does not only mean aligning with the legislation of the European Union – it means much more.

By: Sara Neshkoska

Europeanization implies embracing values such as the rule of law, media freedom, human rights, but also the active participation of citizens – especially young people – in all social processes.

Today’s youth have the potential not only to support someone else’s vision, but to be visionaries themselves. That is why the participation of young people in the process of Europeanization of the Western Balkans must not be symbolic, but essential. Their ideas, concerns, and proposals for the future – the very future they will live in – need to be heard.

As one of the four youth representatives from Macedonia, I had the opportunity to take part in the first conference within the regional project YOUTH for the Europeanization of the Western Balkans, held on July 7 in Podgorica, Montenegro.

The event, conducted in English, gathered young people from Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro. I was part of the panel as a speaker on a topic that is particularly close to me: “All of us young people, together for the Europeanization of the Western Balkans.”

The conference gave me the chance not only to speak, but also to listen – to young leaders, activists, journalists, and analysts from the region. We all shared a common sentiment: that our countries are on the same path, facing similar challenges, and carrying the same hopes. For us, Europe is not just a geographical concept – it is a system of values we aspire to belong to.

The presence of experienced professionals in media, communications, and European policy was especially valuable. They helped us understand the process from different perspectives: political, social, and communicational. Learning from them, as well as from the discussions among the participants themselves, was an experience I will carry with me moving forward.

This conference is only the beginning. Next comes the youth forum in Prishtina on August 25, and the final conference will be held in Skopje in September, where we from Macedonia will take the role of hosts. That will be an opportunity not only to continue the dialogue, but also to present the results of our joint efforts and vision.

Europeanization is not a process that happens “from above.” It happens precisely through initiatives like these, through youth energy, through regional cooperation, and through building trust among young people. Europe is not only a destination – it is a culture of learning, dialogue, and common progress. And we, the youth, must be the ones to lead that process.

This text was produced within the project Youth Engagement for the Europeanization of the Balkans, implemented by the BIRC Institute from North Macedonia, NGO GLAS from Montenegro, and CFID from Kosovo, with the support of the Western Balkans Fund and co-financing by the European Union.

This publication was made with the financial assistance of the European Union. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the author and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union.