As part of the Councillors for Youth platform, a second meeting was held bringing together local councillors and representatives of youth organizations and youth councils. The meeting provided a space for open conversations, identification of key challenges, and formulation of concrete initiative proposals to be directed toward municipal administrations.
One of the central topics was the issue of workspace for youth councils. Representatives of the Ilidža Municipal Youth Council, Merjem Hussein, Nejra Mulaosmanović, and Samir Laličić, reminded attendees that a formal request for space had already been submitted, but a long-awaited resolution is still pending. A similar challenge was highlighted by Isa Zahrić, representing the Youth Council of Centar Municipality, which had just completed the complex registration process and is now seeking a dedicated space to operate from. Participants agreed that without a dedicated space for meetings and activities, youth organizations struggle to function sustainably in the long term. The need for a model of consistent municipal funding for local umbrella youth bodies was also discussed, as current practices vary widely from one municipality to another.
Councillors Mirnes Omerović (Ilidža, SDA), Merima Arnautović (Naprijed BiH), Imran Hodžić (Stari Grad, SBiH), and Malić Hećo (Novo Sarajevo, PzP) all took part in the discussion. Together with the youth representatives, they identified a range of key challenges facing young people in Sarajevo.
One important recommendation was the inclusion of youth representatives as equal members of Youth Commissions in all municipalities, to ensure a direct youth voice in decision-making and policy development. A standout example was noted in the municipality of Stari Grad, where two youth representatives are already serving on the local Youth Commission.
Another important theme was the need to improve communication between local authorities and young people. It was pointed out that municipal websites are often cluttered and difficult to navigate, making it hard for young people to find relevant information. Participants proposed developing communication strategies focused on social media, with regular updates about public calls, grants, and council decisions shared through platforms young people actively use.
Environmental protection was also high on the agenda. As key stakeholders in this area, young people highlighted the need for educational sessions, workshops, and awareness campaigns on climate change and sustainable development. Municipalities were encouraged to support such initiatives in collaboration with schools, NGOs, and subject-matter experts.
The discussion also touched on student scholarships, with a consensus that scholarship amounts should be harmonized across municipalities to reduce disparities. Fair and transparent criteria were encouraged, primarily rewarding academic achievements, alongside the creation of multiple scholarship tracks for specific student categories.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to present the developed proposals to municipal councils in a coordinated effort to improve youth participation and enhance youth policy.
The Councillors for Youth platform will continue its mission of strengthening cooperation between local councillors and young people, with the goal of shaping inclusive, high-quality, and sustainable policies that genuinely respond to community needs.
