The Center for Research and Policy Making (CRPM) invites youth workers, educators, civil society representatives, and local institutions to join the upcoming Young Men Initiative (YMI) Conference on Gender-Based Violence Prevention in Macedonia.
This conference is part of the ongoing efforts within the project “Young Men Initiative in GBV Prevention in Macedonia – Phase II,” launched in October 2023 and implemented across nine municipalities:
Skopje (Center, Gjorce Petrov, Gazi Baba), Tetovo, Ohrid, Shtip, Kavadarci, and Negotino.
About the Project
The overall goal of the Young Men Initiative is to increase the acceptance of healthy, nonviolent, and gender-equitable lifestyles among young men and women in Macedonia. The project promotes positive youth development, gender equality, and violence prevention through education, engagement, and community action.
Key Objectives
- Youth Engagement: Empowering youth as active participants in preventing gender-based violence. The project encourages young people to become allies, advocates, and leaders promoting healthy and equitable relationships.
- Capacity Building: Strengthening local youth NGOs in nine municipalities to implement the YMI methodology and promote nonviolent, gender-equitable lifestyles within their communities.
- Regional Knowledge Exchange: Raising awareness and strengthening policy momentum through regional sharing of best practices among youth workers, teachers, school staff, and young people involved in GBV prevention.
About the YMI Approach
The initiative is based on Program M and Program Y, internationally recognized training manuals that promote gender equality and healthy lifestyles by addressing harmful social constructions of masculinity and femininity. These programs help young people build essential life skills as they transition into adulthood.
Target Group
The project directly engages 360 youth (including 180 boys and 80 girls, alongside broader community outreach), strengthening their understanding of gender equality, nonviolent communication, and healthy relationships.
Why Attend the Conference?
Participants will:
- Gain insights into effective methodologies for GBV prevention;
- Exchange experiences with youth workers and educators from across the region;
- Learn practical tools from Program M and Program Y;
- Contribute to shaping local and regional approaches for healthier, safer communities.
CRPM looks forward to your participation in advancing a more gender-equitable and nonviolent future for young people in Macedonia.
