Fostering youth engagement: Rebuilding Ukraine

Anastasiia and Daryna are two young Ukrainian activists fighting for the right of young people to have (and build) a better and safer world for their war-torn country. In this interview, they shared with us how the situation is for the younger generations on the ground and some critical insights on how we can better accommodate youth needs.

Here is a summary of the considerations they have drawn from their experience working in the field:

• Involving young people in policy and decision-making does not have to be rocket science. Young people are an essential part of society, and as such, they need to be part of the decisions that are taken for the future. Sometimes, initiatives and activities are set up with the best intentions to become only nominal in their effectiveness. Youth engagement should become second nature when implementing projects directly and indirectly impacting their future. We often underestimate the younger generation's potential while, instead, they are filled with the will to create change in their world rapidly.

• Don't miss the chance to teach young people "the how-to." While the potential is there, younger generations lack the tools to translate their desire to create change into real, effective actions.

• Create physical, safe spaces where discussions and the exchange of ideas can flourish. Especially in war-torn countries, younger generations might not have access to places where they can meet and discuss topics that are critical to them. Creating platforms and physical spaces where exchanges are done in a safe way, should always be a priority and the first step.