The action started with regular coordination for the purpose of curriculum development that will present the best national schools’ practices and will guide the youth through the learning process with group work and mentorship support. Each of the three foreseen seminars present important chapter in learning about political institutions, environmental issues, policy cycle and advocacy for a change.

The first seminar of the Regional School for Political Development was held in Tuheljske Toplice, Croatia, from April 19 to 21, 2024. Lecturers and mentors delivered introductory sessions on political institutions at the national and EU levels, green policies in the EU context, and discussions on EU green policies and politics. The program also included several workshops designed to foster collaboration among participants and establish working groups. During the seminar, the project team divided participants into groups and assigned them the task of conducting research and proposing policy recommendations, compiled into policy briefs, on the following topics: circular economy, urban development (transportation), urban development (planning), climate change adaptation, green industries, and clean energy. Each group was assigned a dedicated mentor to guide them through the process.

The second seminar was held in Skopje, Macedonia, from June 14 to 16, 2024. The seminar’s curriculum aimed to strengthen participants’ capacities and knowledge of policy-making processes and the role of citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) in public policy development. The program included group work sessions with mentors and learning opportunities about the role of civil society in shaping environmental policies. Participants also had the chance to engage in discussions with members of parliament, local government representatives, and civic activists actively involved in the policy-making process.

The third seminar, held in Silver Lake, Serbia, from September 20 to 22, 2024, focused on empowering participants to understand the power of active citizenship and their role in building a better society, with a particular emphasis on public advocacy mechanisms. Participants engaged in sessions on public advocacy, advocacy toolkits, climate security, and a panel discussion on sustainable development. The seminar also introduced participants to strategies for leveraging social media platforms to drive change and address local issues in their communities through small, impactful actions.

As part of the program, the project team organized a study visit for participants of the Regional School for Political Development in Croatia from October 3 to 6, 2024. The study visit, titled “Smart Growth, Green Paths: Innovative Solutions for Resilient and Sustainable Communities,” provided participants with insights into how innovative business models can drive change independently of public policy and how hoteliers can implement sustainable tourism practices. The visit included a session in Rijeka, showcasing best practices in sustainability measures and urban development. Participants engaged in motivational discussions with representatives from the University of Rijeka, who shared student-driven ideas for creating a more sustainable future in tourism. A significant portion of the visit was dedicated to Krk Island, where participants explored waste management policies and energy-independent initiatives led by local citizens and businesses.

On March 13, 2024, the Center for Research and Policy Making, in cooperation with the Academy for Political Development and the BFPE Foundation, organized a side-event for the 2024 UNECE Regional Forum on Sustainable Development. The event, titled “Empowering Youth for Sustainable Futures: Sustainable Development,” contributed to the discussions and outcomes of the Forum. It provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and perspectives among youth, as well as showcasing best practices to prepare and motivate them to engage in meaningful dialogues with stakeholders at the local and national levels. Essentially, our goal with this event was to support youth in becoming more active, knowledgeable, and responsible, while encouraging them to take the first step toward positive change in our societies. We positioned youth as the most critical link between the present and a better future, emphasizing the importance of including and valuing their input in the policy-making process.

As part of the Erasmus Days celebrations 2024, on October 16, the project team organized online webinar with work-title ““Building A Better Society: The Power of Active Citizenship”. The webinar explored the crucial role of active citizenship in shaping inclusive, democratic societies. Participants learned about the importance of civic responsibility, the promotion of democratic values, and the essential participation of citizens in decision-making processes. By encouraging informed and proactive participation, active citizens have the power to influence critical areas like climate change, environmental protection, and social justice, ultimately contributing to a more just and sustainable world.

On November 8, 2024, in Strasbourg, as part of the Council of Europe’s World Forum for Democracy 2024, the project team hosted a significant event for the Regional School for Political Development titled “Innovative Partnerships: Strengthening Cooperation of the Schools of Political Studies.” The initiative showcased best practices in regional collaboration among three schools of public policy, emphasizing the value of uniting 30 young leaders to develop solutions, launch initiatives, and advocate for positive change across the Western Balkans.

The final conference to officially close the first year of the Regional School for Political Development will be held in Belgrade, Serbia at the beginning of 2025.