Youth participation in decision-making processes key to democratic development, says OSCE Mission in Kosovo head
PRISHTINЁ/PRIŠTINA, 15 September 2011 – On the occasion of International Democracy Day, 15 September, Ambassador Werner Almhofer, the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, made the following statement:
“More than half population in Kosovo is between the ages of 14 and 25 and their participation in public life and political decision making is critical to democratic development.
“Institutions and political parties should ensure that young people are represented throughout their structures, not only in terms of numbers and when it comes to voting in the elections, but through meaningful engagement in decision making at all levels. Enabling the participation of young women is particularly important.
“The legislative framework in Kosovo for youth engagement and empowerment is in line with international standards. Its full implementation is needed to ensure that young people from all communities are given a voice in decision-making processes, especially on the issues that affect their quality of life, including education and employment.
“Young people in Kosovo are a great asset for progress and, as such, they deserve support. On the other hand, young people also bear the responsibility for becoming active and promoting their agenda through the existing forums facilitating their participation, such as the Local Youth Action Councils and school and university councils.
“The OSCE Mission in Kosovo has supported the involvement of young people in the decision-making process by supporting the establishment and the work of the Youth Caucus in the Assembly of Kosovo, the Local Youth Action Councils and student centres and we will continue to do so.”
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated to support democratic-institution building and to protect and promote human rights.