As part of RYCO’s Leadership Regional Tour, the delegation visited North Macedonia from March 29 to April 1, engaging with key institutional, international, and youth stakeholders through a series of high-level meetings and program activities.
The visit served as a platform to reinforce partnerships, exchange perspectives on ongoing initiatives, and further align joint efforts in addressing the needs and challenges faced by young people in the region.
During the visit, RYCO leadership met with Government representatives and officials from the Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth, as well as members of the Assembly of North Macedonia. Conversations focused on advancing youth policy priorities, strengthening institutional cooperation, and ensuring the effective implementation of development initiatives in line with national frameworks.
In a meeting with the Minister of Social Policy, Demography and Youth, Mr. Fatmir Limani, particular attention was given to the importance of sustained coordination in shaping and delivering impactful youth-focused policies and programs.
Engagement with the Assembly, including discussions with the President of the Assembly, Mr. Gashi, and members of the Parliamentary Club of Young MPs, highlighted the need to further support mechanisms that enable meaningful dialogue between young people and decision-makers, especially in the context of legislative processes affecting youth.
RYCO leadership also held meetings with a broad range of international and institutional partners, including the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, the National Youth Council of Macedonia (NYCM), the European Union Delegation, and United Nations agencies. These exchanges emphasized the value of coordinated, multilateral approaches and explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in areas such as inclusive participation, capacity building, and data-driven policy development.
A dedicated meeting with the ambassadors of Germany, France, and Italy provided space to discuss avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation and developing joint initiatives focused on democratic engagement, regional cooperation, and sustainable development.
Additional meetings with diplomatic representatives from Austria and Switzerland further contributed to strengthening partnerships and identifying shared priorities in supporting youth across the Western Balkans.
An important highlight of the visit was the gathering with RYCO beneficiaries, youth civil society organizations, and partners from initiatives supported over the past decade. The event celebrated ongoing cooperation and offered a space to reflect on achievements while looking ahead to future collaboration.
The visit also included a Superschools activity, where RYCO leadership attended an exchange between Gymnasium “Josip Broz Tito” and “28 November” High School from Shkoder, Albania. The encounter brought together students for discussions, cultural exchange, and shared experiences, illustrating the impact of regional youth mobility and cooperation.
The North Macedonia visit reaffirmed RYCO’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships, supporting youth-led initiatives, and contributing to inclusive and sustainable development across the region.
