Following a successful gathering in Sarajevo, the “Councillors for Youth” platform continued its work in Tuzla, bringing together representatives of youth organizations and local officials for a constructive conversation on how to better support young people in the city.
The meeting was held at the Tuzla Youth Space, which both symbolically and practically reflects the potential and challenges of youth organizing in the area. While already a valuable resource for local NGOs, the space requires additional equipment and sustained institutional support.
A key proposal that emerged was securing dedicated budget funds through a formal initiative submitted to the City Council to help take full advantage of this space.
Participants included representatives from leading youth organizations: Azra Musić from OP Revolt, Iris Stuhli from the Youth Theater Tuzla, Josip Ventić from the Tuzla Open Center, and Mirza Halilčević, president of the Youth Forum of the SBiH in Tuzla.
In an open and constructive dialogue, they spoke about the real needs of young people, highlighting the lack of accessible cultural, educational, and recreational programs, as well as safe spaces for self-expression and community building.
The discussion also underscored the need for more meaningful inclusion of youth in shaping cultural and public initiatives. While young people are often invited to participate in planning processes, they frequently feel more like passive observers than partners in decision-making. One key recommendation was to strengthen their role in consultative processes, including increasing their presence on city committees and working groups.
Omer Berbić from Naša stranka was the only city councillor who responded to the invitation, continuing his track record of openness to dialogue with youth. His presence and active participation were especially encouraging, and the practical advice and insights he shared were appreciated by those in attendance.
Participants also stressed the importance of more consistent and direct communication between institutions and young people. Suggestions included increasing the social media presence of local government bodies and regularly organizing events like “Coffee Chats with Councillors” or open-door days, to promote transparency and active youth engagement in public policy and budgeting.
Although public transportation falls outside the direct authority of the local government, the issue naturally came up in the discussion. Youth attendees highlighted the urgent need for reliable, affordable, and safe public transport, especially in the evening.
The meeting in Tuzla reaffirmed just how important it is for young people to have direct access to decision-makers and a real say in policies that affect them. Without their authentic voices, inclusive community development simply isn’t possible.
The “Councillors for Youth” platform remains a space for connection, collaboration, and real change, because when youth and councillors speak with one voice, they can make a meaningful difference.
