To successfully campaign in local elections, young politicians need to understand how election campaigns are planned and carried out. Along with the necessary skills, young politicians today must understand how to use social media, work with journalists and the media, and communicate effectively with the different groups they aim to reach.
Throughout 2024, the Institute for Youth Development KULT has been working with 18 young politicians to help them advocate for youth issues while preparing and running election campaigns, and in the post-election period as well.
The third module of the Learn, Think, and Act! training for political leaders focused on giving participants a deeper understanding of BiH’s political and electoral system, teaching them how to develop an advocacy plan, and prepare an election campaign.
“This course taught me many valuable lessons. In addition to the opportunity to connect with key decision-makers in BiH, it introduced me to a group of talented young people whose ideas truly inspired me. I believe this module was an excellent opportunity to improve our political image, and I highly recommend that every young person seize opportunities like this one,” says Tijana Jelena Lovrić, HDZ BiH from Kiseljak.
During the module, the participants had the opportunity to engage with an active young individual and learn about creating content for social media. Tahir Žustra, a journalist from Nova BiH, spoke to the young politicians about the importance of social media presence and how to make campaign content more relatable and useful to voters.
“This training made me see that young politicians are not the future, but the present. This experience made one thing clear: for real change to take place, we must be at the heart of the action. We learned how to amplify our voices, become more visible, and be bolder in advocating for what we believe in. Without the active involvement of young people, there is no progress – we are a force that will definitely reshape the political scene”, said Vanja Tanasić, from SNSD, currently a councilor in the Doboj City Council.
The third module allowed participants to practice their skills in writing an advocacy document, addressing the real needs and challenges faced by young people in their communities. At the same time, they discussed specific steps to develop a campaign for the local elections.
“UMiDp fosters connections and knowledge that last a lifetime. Excellent trainers shared valuable knowledge with us – the kind of insights we don’t get through formal education. My message to young people is: Get involved in UMiDp – it’s a great way to make the most of your free time. It’s time to support the personal development of young people in our country!”, said Ahmed Hodžić, from NiP.
Through this training, the Institute aims to support young politicians in building a strong and positive image, helping them stand out in local elections.
UMiD for Young Political Leaders (UMiDp) is the Institute’s program for young politicians (ages 18-30) from different political parties and different local communities. During this 15-day training, young politicians learn the skills they need to navigate the political landscape and advocate for the rights of young people. During the training, participants learn about the political system by combining theory and practice, with the ultimate goal of effectively advocating for better youth representation. During the training, they will learn how to build a political image that will set them apart and innovative, youth-friendly politicians.
Leave a comment