November 2024
The Pristina Institute for Political Studies (PIPS) recently hosted a delegation of young Finnish politicians, graduates of the Demo Finland Academy for Democracy, for a study visit aimed at fostering dialogue and exchange of experiences between Kosovo and Finland. The visit provided a platform to explore the challenges and opportunities for political participation among young people in Kosovo by sharing Finnish experiences of multi-party cooperation.
A joint workshop highlighted barriers to political participation in Kosovo, such as limited support for youth organizations and the need for stronger gender representation. Finnish participants shared insights into Finland’s methods for fostering multi-party cooperation and dialogue, which Kosovars found valuable. This exchange was particularly important in view of the upcoming Kosovo elections in February 2025, where youth engagement will play a crucial role in the democratic process.
Demo Finland held a Timeout Dialogue session during the visit, focusing on the intersections of democracy, security and the role of social media. This approach encouraged young political representatives from Kosovo, often divided along party lines, to engage constructively and respectfully with each other. The session highlighted the importance of dialogue in building mutual respect and understanding, with participants reflecting on the benefits of listening to different perspectives and finding common ground.
Despite their different contexts, participants identified similarities in the challenges young people face in political systems, such as polarization and marginalization of young voices. The Finnish delegation brought new perspectives on overcoming these obstacles, which also resonated with the Kosovar participants. This mutual learning experience demonstrated the value of international exchanges in addressing common political issues and fostering new solutions.
Cultural exchange was another important aspect of the visit. Informal interactions between Finnish and Kosovar participants fostered camaraderie and strengthened dialogue, emphasizing the value of personal connections in overcoming political divisions. The visit demonstrated Kosovo’s commitment to strengthening young leaders who can bridge divisions and contribute to the country’s democratic progress.
| Programs | - European Integration
- School for Political Studies
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