18.09.2023. » 12:48


OP - ED Social Awareness and Youth Rights in Kosovo



When considering the future of young people in Kosovo, we cannot emphasize enough the profound and comprehensive impact that politics has on every aspect of their lives. Politics has a crucial influence on economic conditions, education, access to social services, and all the daily challenges that young people face, regardless of whether they are actively involved in political activities or not.

op-ed-social-awareness-and-youth-rights-in-kosovo

When considering the future of young people in Kosovo, we cannot emphasize enough the profound and comprehensive impact that politics has on every aspect of their lives. Politics has a crucial influence on economic conditions, education, access to social services, and all the daily challenges that young people face, regardless of whether they are actively involved in political activities or not.

The economic situation of young people in Kosovo is particularly vulnerable to political changes. Shifts in the political landscape often lead to changes in economic policies that significantly affect the unemployment rate, inflation, and the standard of living of young people. In Kosovo, the youth unemployment rate is alarmingly high, exceeding 45%. This has resulted in a mass emigration of educated young people in search of better employment opportunities and professional development abroad. The departure of educated and ambitious youth represents a significant loss for Kosovo, as the country loses its human resources and potential future leaders. Additionally, many young people are forced to accept jobs that do not match their qualifications or interests due to the perception that employment is often obtained through political connections.

While many young people avoid openly expressing their political views, they have high expectations of the government and society as a whole. They believe that it is the government's responsibility to ensure a just social environment and provide equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their economic status. Social justice remains a key concern for young people in Kosovo.

Despite the challenges, young people in Kosovo demonstrate unwavering determination and enthusiasm in their efforts to shape their future. Many are willing to stay in the country if better conditions for their development and progress are created. Their activism, including the fight for human rights and raising awareness of key issues, plays a crucial role in building a society that offers justice, equality, and opportunities for all young generations in Kosovo.

The situation of young people in Kosovo is complex and requires a comprehensive approach to secure a better future. Another key aspect to explore is the role of education. The education system plays a vital role in shaping the perspectives of young people. The quality of education, access to resources, and the relevance of the curriculum are directly linked to the ability of young people to prepare for the job market and contribute to society.

Kosovo faces challenges in the education sector, including a lack of funds for modernizing and improving educational institutions. This can lead to a mismatch between the skills young people acquire during their education and those needed in the job market. Investing in education and aligning the curriculum with the demands of the job market can help young people better prepare for future challenges.

It is also essential to consider the role of the international community in shaping Kosovo's future. Support and investments from international organizations can contribute to improving the economic situation and the education system in Kosovo, directly benefiting young people.

In conclusion, the future of young people in Kosovo depends on many factors, including political stability, economic sustainability, the quality of education, and support from the international community. Young activists and citizens have a vital role in shaping that future through their engagement and advocacy for the rights and opportunities of all. All these aspects must be carefully considered to create conditions for a prosperous and just future for young people in Kosovo.

 

Katarina Maksimović,

 Master of Laws