On April 25 at Kino Lumbardhi in Prizren, SHL-Kosova, co-implementer of the Kosovo Youth Participation – KYP project with the CARE International organization, held the National Youth Congress for 2023. With the presence of over 200 young participants, representatives of local institutions, central, and non-governmental organizations, and the media discussed the topic: “Social Media – are they helping or harming democracy”.
During the discussion, the topic of quick access and not-so-safe to social media was touched upon, which is considered one of the most common activities of young people. Any online site that allows posting on various social topics is considered social media. Such media provide young people with entertainment and fast communication, but often with false or unconfirmed information. Engaging in various forms of social media is a routine activity that benefits young people, and social connections, and even increases their skills.
Mr. Shaqir Totaj – Mayor of Prizren and Mrs. Melita Bytyci Kelmendi, who showed the importance of such organizations that encourage the commitment and participation of young people, gave such remarks in their opening words. While sharing their professional opinions, the invited panelists were Mr. Resul Sinani – University Professor & Journalist, Mrs. Burbuqe Kastrati – Representative of the Debate Center, Mr. Arben Shala – Consultant for Planning strategic documents for Youth, and Mrs. Erolina Morina – Psychologist.
During the discussion moderated by Mrs. Vjollca Gurgule – deputy Director of SHL-Kosova, young people learned more about how social media and online platforms can be used in order for them to benefit from the opportunities that institutions offer and how they can be used as tools for access to decision-making processes.
From this event and discussion, concrete recommendations will be submitted to the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports in order to include the needs of young people in future strategic documents.
This activity was organized with the financial support of the European Union (EU).
