OSCE Presence in Albania empowers youth to address security challenges in their communities

Ninety young women and men from several regions of Albania participated in a series of workshops on youth empowerment organized by the OSCE Presence from 3 to 25 September 2020. Throughout the events that took place in Shkodra, Mirdita, Përmet, Pogradec and Korça, the Presence aimed at helping young people become among the key players in identifying and addressing the security challenges in their communities. It also aimed at strengthening co-operation between community and institutions.

Among the topics discussed at these events were new security challenges facing young people, the prevention of radicalization and violent extremism, youth engagement in Local Safety Councils, the role and responsibilities of school security officers, mediation and conflict resolution skills, and domestic violence and gender-based violence in Albania.

“The energy and engagement of the young people on security matters makes us optimistic that they will be among the most active voices to boost co-operation and co-ordination between institutions and the community to improve community safety,” said Brunilda Halili, National Community Safety Officer at the OSCE Presence in Albania.

The Presence will also continue supporting young people from across the country in 2021 by raising their awareness and empowering them to address security challenges in their communities.