The Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) launches the “Youth Dialog” project, an initiative dedicated to strengthening youth civic engagement and promoting social cohesion in five rural communities across the Republic of Moldova. During this period, the project will be contributing to building a sustainable platform for dialogue and cooperation between young people and local public authorities (LPAs), laying the groundwork for a more participatory and inclusive society.
Project Goal
The project seeks to address the challenges faced by young people in rural areas—limited opportunities for civic participation, social exclusion, and reduced access to services—by creating and supporting local platforms for youth–LPA dialogue and cooperation.
Context Analysis
Young people in rural communities of the Republic of Moldova struggle with a lack of civic participation opportunities, insufficient services, and limited dialogue with public authorities. At the same time, the high percentage of NEET youth (27%) and their weak representation in local decision-making processes further deepen social exclusion and undermine community cohesion. Against this backdrop, the Youth Dialog project seeks to create real bridges of cooperation between young people and local administrations, promoting active participation, tolerance, and civic initiative at the community level.
Partner Communities
Beneficiaries
- 50 young people directly involved in project activities (10 from each community);
- Local youth leaders, supported through mentorship;
- LPA representatives, benefiting from tools for improved collaboration with young people;
- The broader community – parents, teachers, citizens – through campaigns and public actions.
Expected Results
- Enhanced capacity of young people to actively participate in community life;
- Establishment of sustainable partnerships between young people and LPAs;
- Improved social cohesion and reduced tensions in targeted communities;
- Dissemination of good practices at regional and national levels.
Sustainability
The initiative groups created and the strengthened partnerships with LPAs will continue beyond the project’s completion. Young people will be trained to mobilize local resources, write project proposals, and cooperate with local actors to ensure the continuity of initiatives.
Disclaimer
This initiative is organized by the Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) within the project “Strengthening Social Cohesion in Moldova through Community Dialogue and Empowerment”, implemented by UNDP, UNFPA Moldova, and supported by Switzerland.