WESTERN BALKANS – Beginning of December marked the start of the lifetime journey for 13 young people from Western Balkans region, who paid official visit to Japan within “Japan’s Friendship Ties Program” – MIRAI. This is the 5th cycle of the program that Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) implemented in cooperation with the Government of Japan with the aim to promote mutual understanding, enhance intellectual discussion and build a strong network among future leaders.
From 3rd to 10th of December, 13 young people previously selected through a highly competitive process among nearly 400 applicants, had an opportunity to visit important historical sites and education institutions in Tokyo and Hiroshima, and through dialogue and discussions deepen their knowledge on peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
Accompanied by the Head of RYCO’s Local Branch Office in North Macedonia, Vladimir Gjorgjevski, MIRAI participants had a chance to engage in a fruitful discussion on peacebuilding with students and a professor from Sofia University, where they shared their understanding of peace, and through interactive group work, offered solutions for overcoming peace threats.
“Visiting Japan gave me a profound appreciation for its culture of respect and mindfulness. I also saw how Japan’s post-war pacifism and diplomacy are not just policies but values embedded in everyday life, guiding how conflicts are approached with balance and mutual respect. This experience inspired me to reflect on the power of intentionality and collective responsibility in transforming nations,” shared Dragana Kurti, participant from Albania.
During first days of visit, participants learned about Japan’s efforts towards peacebuilding through a visit to Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and later, during their visit to Hiroshima, were engaged in an insightful discussion on how Japan dealt with its past, particularly the aftermath of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima.
The visit to the Peace Memorial Park left the deepest impact on Agon Rexhepi, participant from Kosovo*, who felt especially empathetic about themes of war and its devastating consequences.
“Standing in Hiroshima, witnessing the documented experiences and profound suffering of its people, was both moving and humbling. I deeply admire how Japanese society has preserved this history, reminding us that a history forgotten is bound to be repeated. It stands as a powerful testament that peace is the only way forward,” said Agon.
Mila Jovanovikj from North Macedonia shares same impressions. “To me, visiting Hiroshima was the most impactful part of the journey – it was a powerful reminder of the resilience of humanity and the importance of peace,” stated Mila and added that the entire experience taught her the value of intercultural dialogue and inspired her to apply these lessons to promote cooperation and inclusivity in her community. “This journey was more than just a cultural exchange. It was a bridge to new perspectives and lifelong connections,” Mila concluded.
As the reception at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan officially marked the end of seven-day journey to the Land of Rising Sun, this program served as a transformative experience for 13 young people from WB6. From the charming streets of Miyajima Island to busy streets of Tokyo, they deepen their understanding on the strength of reconciliation and peace.
By far, around 80 young people from Western Balkan region had an opportunity to participate in the MIRAI program, all sharing impressions of the life-changing experience that broadened their perspectives on intercultural relations, peacebuilding and networking.
“Japan never stopped moving, and that is a lesson the youth of Western Balkans can take home. The youth of our region is showcasing new waves of resilience and determination, and ties with Japan can only help us become even better champions of peace, and ambassadors of all the beauty Western Balkans possess,” is the message from 5th cycle participant from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ena Porča.
Positive impact of this program is an additional motive for RYCO to continue with its implementation in cooperation with Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, and process for selecting candidates for the new batch of MIRAI program will be open next year in a form of call published on RYCO website.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.
