The third training module for expert associates for youth work, organized by the Institute for Youth Development KULT, deepened participants’ understanding of youth policies, the legal frameworks that define them, and the mechanisms that support their implementation in local communities. Participants from across BiH explored concrete examples of how local governments can—and should—respond to the needs of young people, along with practical tools for advocating more effectively for better youth policies.
This module focused on the legal provisions that define the rights and obligations of young people, as well as the responsibilities of government institutions working with youth. Special emphasis was placed on how local authorities can use a strategic and systemic approach to ensure young people’s inclusion and improve their position in society. Through interactive workshops, participants analyzed the existing legal frameworks, identified key actors in youth policy, and engaged in simulated dialogues between youth and decision-makers—an experience that proved to be one of the most impactful segments of the training.
“The third module helped me better understand the legal framework and norms concerning youth in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The atmosphere was great, and what surprised me most was the simulated youth-government dialogue. Through this training, I discovered a lot about youth—even though I myself am part of that group. The end is near, when we’ll officially become expert associates for youth work—i.e. youth workers,” said Lazar Marjanac from the Association of Youth for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage “Beli anđeo.”
Learning from each other
One particularly inspiring moment was the meeting with Enisa Mešetović, youth officer in the Municipality of Ilijaš, who previously completed the Institute’s basic youth officer training and attended several capacity-building seminars organized by the Institute. She shared her experiences working with young people, the challenges she encounters, and the ways she strives to serve as a link between institutions and youth.
Participants appreciated the chance to hear firsthand what it means to have someone in a municipality who understands youth needs and knows how to integrate those needs into official strategies and budgets. Enisa’s story offered a powerful reminder of the importance of investing simultaneously in youth workers and youth officers—because only together can they create sustainable policies that change the lives of young people.
Coffee Chat with a purpose: M1 Prava za mlade (Right(s) for Youth)
The third day of the module featured a special edition of the Institute’s Coffee Chat series, this time with M1 – Right(s) for Youth, the first and only political platform in BiH focused exclusively on young people and their needs.
In a relaxed setting, participants met with Nevio Bruck, an M1 representative, to discuss how youth can organize, participate in decision-making, and advocate for policies that affect their lives directly. This open exchange of ideas, experiences, and contacts created new opportunities for networking and cooperation—strengthening youth work in communities across the country.
More than education
Participants emphasized that this training is more than just a sharing knowledge. It’s also a space where partnerships, friendships, and ideas are born—ideas with the potential to transform local communities.
“I’m truly delighted—not only with the opportunity to be selected for this training, but also with the work of the Institute. This third module was incredibly useful, especially since I previously knew very little about youth policy. I was particularly impressed by the Coffee Chat with Enisa—it added something special to the training. I work with young people with developmental disabilities, so this knowledge is crucial for me. I’m happy to be part of this training, and the energy of the participants is truly incredible,” said Amela Džubur from the Center for Children and Youth with Special Needs “Los Rosales.”
This module once again showed the value of investing in knowledge, mutual support, and cooperation between those who work with youth and those who make decisions on their behalf. The Institute is already preparing for the final module, which promises new insights, inspiration, and a shared vision for a better future for youth in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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