Project name: Let’s debate change
Project duration: 01/01/2024 – 31/12/2024
Donor: Swiss Development organization ”Solidar Suisse”
Budget: 47.000,00 EUR / 91.924,00 BAM
Applicant: Local Democracy Agency (LDA) Mostar
Description: Active participation, institutional trust, and inclusion are the main features of liberal democracies. Unfortunately, these features are still considerable news in B&H and the region and they are yet to be fully integrated into social structures. Young people today are more likely to participate in targeted activities, such as protests or petitions, aimed at creating or changing public policies, rather than resorting to traditional forms of democratic participation, such as participation in political parties or voting. A low level of trust in government institutions makes governance more difficult by undermining public authority. Furthermore, it discourages young people in their efforts to innovate and adapt these institutions which would make them more responsive to their needs. As a result, this further reduces the effectiveness and legitimacy of governments. Described setting is ground for action whose aim is to encourage youth activism and strengthen youth participation in decision-making processes at the local level.
Project goals: Enhancing engagement of young people in advocacy and creating effective change in three cities with the support of local governments.
Specific goals: Young people in three cities have developed their debating skills thus enhancing their political participation and cooperation with local governments.
Target groups: High school students (120 in total) in targeted cities and community members who will benefit from local improvement projects designed by students.