RAMANDA SHEHU, NEW AMBASSADOR: EUROPEAN INTEGRATION MUST BECOME A TANGIBLE REALITY FOR YOUTH

Interviewed by: Enis Shaqiri
BIRC Institute

Ramanda Shehu is a motivated professional with a strong interest in international relations and social media communication. She is the new European Ambassador of North Macedonia. Currently, she is pursuing master’s studies in International Communication at South East European University and in European Studies at the University of Ljubljana.

In this interview for BIRC Institute, she discusses the role of youth in the European integration process, the challenges of their involvement, and ways to counter disinformation.

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

Ramanda Shehu: Many young people have a general idea, but not always in-depth knowledge. They know that the EU offers opportunities, but they don’t necessarily know how the integration process works or what it specifically means for their lives. That’s why it is important to convey this information in simple language — in schools, universities, and on social media, where young people are active.

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

Ramanda Shehu: One of the main obstacles is the lack of equal opportunities for participation. Not everyone has access to programs like Erasmus+ due to economic or geographical barriers. Another obstacle is disinformation and eurosceptic narratives, which often create distrust. Furthermore, the lack of a broader democratic culture and active participation makes it more difficult for young people to be involved in decision-making.

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

Ramanda Shehu: Interregional cooperation improves significantly when we have opportunities to meet in person, not only online. For example, programs like Erasmus+ give you the chance to live for a while in another country and realize the similarities between us. Also, on networks like WeBalkans, where I am involved, I’ve seen how inspiring it is when young people from different Balkan countries come together for joint projects. These experiences make European integration something tangible in our everyday lives.

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

Ramanda Shehu: When I participated in Erasmus+, I realized how much such an experience can change you. It was not only about studying, but I felt like part of a larger European family. I made friends from countries I might never have met otherwise and understood that we have many more things in common than differences. But I also know that not everyone has the chance to benefit from these programs, sometimes due to financial reasons or simply a lack of information. It would be good if these opportunities became more accessible, so that more young people from the Balkans can experience this closeness with Europe.

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

Ramanda Shehu: The best way is transparency and direct communication with young people. They need concrete examples of how the EU has improved their lives — whether through employment opportunities, infrastructure investments, or support for human rights. As young ambassadors, we should be the “voice” that counters disinformation with facts, success stories, and our personal experiences from EU programs.

BIRC: Do you think there is euroscepticism among young people, and what drives it?

Ramanda Shehu: Yes, in some cases it does exist. It often stems from disinformation, unemployment, lack of perspective, or the feeling that the integration process is too slow. This shows how important it is for us to get involved and demonstrate that the EU is not just an abstract idea, but a concrete project connected with democracy, peace, and opportunities for a better life.

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

This interview was prepared with the financial support of the European Union. The contents are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.