Project name: Mapping for Youth council establishment in the Municipality of Tetovo

Funded by: UNDP Macedonia

Project description: The project focuses on mapping public opinion in Tetovo regarding youth civic engagement and participation at the local level, with a particular emphasis on the potential establishment of a Youth Council within the Municipality of Tetovo. To capture diverse perspectives, four target groups were engaged: youth representatives (high school and university students), members of local NGOs, youth forums from major political parties, and a municipal representative.

Focus groups were conducted with young people, NGOs, and political youth forums to analyze their views on civic participation, opportunities, and challenges, while an in-depth interview with the municipal representative provided an institutional perspective. The findings highlight perceptions of youth involvement in decision-making processes and assess the readiness and interest in formalizing participation through a Youth Council. This initiative represents an important step toward fostering dialogue between youth, civil society, political actors, and local government to strengthen democratic participation in Tetovo.