A kick-off event in Tirana marked the beginning of RYCOgnizing YPS – new regional initiative aimed at empowering youth actors and organizations across the Western Balkans. This RYCO project will provide targeted support to youth-led initiatives that advance peace and stability in the region.
Supported by the German Government through the German Federal Foreign Office, RYCOgnizing YPS project aims to empower selected youth actors, organizations, and multipliers that have the potential to make a local impact and contribute to the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda.
Through a competitive call, civil society organizations (CSOs) and youth-led initiatives demonstrating a strong potential for local impact will be identified and further supported and equipped with essential tools for human rights advocacy, democratic participation, and civic engagement.
By enhancing the competencies of youth in these areas, the initiative aims to strengthen their capacity to contribute meaningfully to peace and security efforts at the local level. This approach will support increased youth participation and engagement in peace and security processes within the region.
In his opening remarks, RYCO Secretary General, Albert Hani, emphasized the significance of youth empowerment in peace and reconciliation efforts in the region, underscoring firm belief that young people are leaders in peacebuilding efforts. He noted that by providing opportunities for skills development and advocacy, the initiative contribute meaningfully to the Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS) agenda in our region and empowers young changemakers to shape their communities and influence decision-making processes.
Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Albania, H.E. Karl Bergner, in his opening speech emphasized the value of youth cooperation and role of young people in shaping shared and peaceful future.
RYCO Project Manager, Sonila Necaj, presented to participants key project objectives and activities that will strengthen capacities of youth actors in the region to elevate YPS efforts at the local level.
Event continued with RYCOgnizing YPS panel discussion, moderated by Local Program Officer in LBO Albania, Flutura Brakaj, that gathered representative of UN in Albania, Alba Agolli, OSCE in Albania Blerina Balla, together with representative of National Youth Congress Ergys Gezka and Young Activist Ema Mecaj.
The launch of RYCOgnizing YPS marks the beginning of an exciting journey toward empowering youth-led initiatives and fostering sustainable peace across the region. As RYCO and its partners move forward, the initiative is expected to have a lasting impact, strengthening youth engagement in peacebuilding and democratic processes in the Western Balkans.
