On May 6, 2025, the Balkan Civil Society Development Network (BCSDN) organized a dynamic workshop in Skopje, North Macedonia, as part of the Erasmus+ project A Democratic Journey to Empower Future Leaders. The workshop was held within the broader training event “Democratic Communication Mastery,” which gathered high school students from Belgium, Latvia, and North Macedonia for a week of learning and exchange.
The event was implemented in partnership with high schools from Diest (Belgium) and Riga (Latvia), aiming to foster greater awareness and understanding of democratic values among young people across Europe. The Skopje workshop focused on core themes of democracy, youth activism, civic space, and democratic culture, encouraging participants to reflect on their role in shaping inclusive and participatory societies.
BCSDN’s Head of Policy and Advocacy, Anja Bosilkova-Antovska, along with Simona Mladenovska and Toshe Zafirov, facilitated discussions on the meaning and relevance of civil society in democratic systems. Through a combination of presentations and interactive sessions, participants explored the value of active citizenship, solidarity, and civic participation in safeguarding democratic principles.
A key part of the workshop was an engaging role-play exercise, designed to help students recognize the diversity present in society and understand the important role that civil society organizations play in promoting dialogue, inclusion, and accountability. This hands-on approach allowed students to apply what they had learned in a simulated democratic environment, reinforcing their understanding of the complexities and responsibilities that come with civic engagement.
The workshop in Skopje offered a valuable platform for cross-border exchange, critical thinking, and empowerment, aligning with BCSDN’s mission to strengthen civic space and democratic participation in the Western Balkans and beyond. Through initiatives like this, BCSDN continues to support the development of active and informed future leaders committed to democratic values.
