Policy paper : young people in Kosovo

In today s environment, the younger generations are shaping the society. This is the case with Kosovo as much as it is in the rest of the world. Young people are important components in development and, in many cases, catalyst of social, economic and political change. Youth in Kosovo is marginalized, as they are affected by economic as well as social and political conditions. One of large obstacle for the young people is trouble getting listened to by the adult politicians in becoming an active force in shaping their future society. This lack of opportunities for youth participation is de facto lack of democracy, and a major hindrance for openness, respect, and the will to cooperation as a viable alternative to prejudices and the remains of old conflicts. Youth involvement is a necessary element in creating stable, peaceful and democratic societies. Kosovo is a society in which over half the population is under the age of 24, and with the highest birthrate in Europe, it is clear that Kosovo's young people are a strong and valuable asset that, like young people everywhere, want to be put to work want to be productive, and want to be invested in through education and training.