Policy Briefs
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Feb 27, 2023
By: Inva Nela, Gresa Smolica
Today, the Western Balkan region suffers from high unemployment rates especially among youth, brain drain, high migration rates, low levels of trust in public institutions, devastated health systems, weak economies and harmed environments. The European Union’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans aims to boost the long-term recovery, economic development, accelerate a green and digital transition, foster regional cooperation and convergence with the EU. However, not enough attention has so far been given to the next generation, argue the authors of this Policy Brief. In their analyses they focus on the mechanisms in place and the space offered to ensure youth participation in sectoral policy-making, provide recommendations for increasing involvement of young people and establishing more inclusive and youth-friendly policies.