On 29th of March, the iRi team organized a dialogue and exchange of experience with 26 youth workers/specialists, activists, LPA representatives, youth sector development officials and volunteers from 21 rural communities, representing 11 districts of the Republic of Moldova.
This activity was a logical continuation of several previous activities: the first one was held in October 2023 at the level of youth specialists and the second one held in February 2024 and attended by high-level decision-makers (district presidents and vice-presidents, mayors, deputy mayors).
During the activity a number of issues in implementing youth policies in rural communities were discussed as among the colleagues. The colleagues from 21 communities also talked about how to find solutions through more effective communication.
The iRi team facilitated a practical exercise to identify and solve specific problems and challenges in the youth sector at the local level. Within the workshops, the participants learned from each other about different strategies to overcome barriers and challenges in the youth sector, focusing on more effective communication with local authorities.
The dialogue and sharing experience during the activity encouraged building new partnerships and collaborations among youth workers/specialists, youth activists, LPA representatives and volunteers from the communities and districts represented at the event.
“The authorities have to take young people not only as beneficiaries but also as reliable partners in building future. Through collaboration and mutual support, we can cultivate an environment where young people can develop and reach their full potential, thus contributing to the sustainable progress of the community.” – Stas Cebotari, the Executive Director of the Centre for Sustainable Development and Civic Innovation, village of Suri, Drochia district.
During the activity, the participants specified a number of solutions and developed recommendations that will serve as a basis for planning and implementing future actions aimed at improving the implementation of youth policies at the local level and strengthening the youth sector in rural areas of Moldova. These recommendations will be forwarded to representatives of the Moldovan Government.
“An effective dialogue involving youth workers, LPA representatives and young rural activists is essential for consolidating the youth sector at the local level and effective implementation of youth policies.” – Dorina Adam, the representative of “Lingureni cu suflet mare” NGO, village of Lingura, Cantemir district.
The activity is part of the project “Youth Empowerment in Rural Areas (YEP)” implemented by iRi in partnership with GLCAP, Ohio, USA, with the support of the US Department of State.