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YSP Balkan at the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Week in Vienna
YSP Balkan at the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Week in Vienna
During this week, the Director of YSP Balkan and UN Coordinator for IAYSP Europe and the Middle East (IAYSP EUME), Prof. Ejona Icka, participated in the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV) Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Week, contributing to a series of high-level side events dedicated to youth empowerment, crime prevention, and anti-corruption education.
As part of the official program, she served as moderator and panelist in the side event organized by IAYSP EUME on:
“Empowering Youth through Education for Crime Prevention and Anti-Corruption.”
The session emphasized the essential role of education in preventing corruption and empowering young people to become active contributors to transparent, accountable, and peaceful societies.
She also participated as a panelist in the side event hosted by UPF Europe and the Middle East titled:
“The Relevance of Interreligious Cooperation for Crime Prevention.”
This discussion highlighted the importance of interfaith and intercultural cooperation in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening crime prevention efforts globally.
In addition, she presented a peace project focused on anti-corruption education, showcasing practical approaches to integrating integrity, ethics, and civic responsibility into youth education initiatives.
During this week she was accompanied by the Programs Coordinator of YSP Balkan in North Macedonia, Ms. Amra Azizi, who also served as a panelist in the IAYSP EUME side event, contributing to stronger regional youth representation and collaboration.
This participation at the United Nations Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) Week reflects YSP Balkan’s continued commitment to empowering youth, promoting integrity through education, and contributing to global peacebuilding and crime prevention efforts.
Youth of Pogradec in Action
Youth of Pogradec in Action
The youth-led project “Education on Mental Health”, designed and developed by youth and students of Pogradec during the Peace Designer Training, Awarded "Best Youth-Led Initiative" at the Balkan International Youth Summit for Peace 2025, has successfully completed its implementation phase in Pogradec, Albania.
The initiative aimed to raise awareness about mental health among young people, promote open discussions on emotional well-being, and encourage healthier approaches to managing stress and anxiety. Through interactive workshops, group discussions, and peer-learning activities, the project reached dozens of young participants from local schools.
Participants reported increased awareness and understanding of mental health issues and expressed greater confidence in discussing emotional challenges and seeking support when needed. Many shared personal experiences during the sessions, contributing to a more open and supportive environment. Parents highlighted positive changes in communication and emotional awareness among their children, while schools recognized the project's contribution to promoting well-being and fostering a more supportive educational environment.
The successful completion of the project demonstrates the power of youth-led initiatives to address important community challenges and create meaningful social impact.
Three-Year Memorandum of Agreement with the University of Tetova
Three-Year Memorandum of Agreement with the University of Tetova
YSP Balkan is pleased to announce the signing of a three-year Memorandum of Cooperation with University of Tetova, North Macedonia.
The partnership aims to promote academic cooperation, youth engagement, intercultural dialogue, leadership development, and regional collaboration between young people across the Balkans. Through joint activities, educational initiatives, conferences, trainings, and youth programs, the cooperation will contribute to strengthening connections between students, institutions, and future leaders across the region.
This memorandum reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to fostering peace, education, and international cooperation.
Four-Year Memorandum of Agreement with the Municipality of South Mitrovica
Four-Year Memorandum of Agreement with the Municipality of South Mitrovica
YSP Balkan has officially signed a three-year Memorandum of Cooperation with the Municipality of South Mitrovica.
This partnership aims to strengthen collaboration in the fields of youth empowerment, peacebuilding, education, intercultural dialogue, and community engagement. Through this cooperation, both parties will work together to create new opportunities for young people and support initiatives that contribute to social development and regional cooperation.
The agreement represents an important step toward building sustainable partnerships that promote active youth participation and positive social impact in Kosova and across the Balkans.
From Screens to Real Connection: Kosova's Project Heads to S!NERGY Assembly
From Screens to Real Connection: Kosova's Project Heads to S!NERGY Assembly
The youth-led project “Disconnect to Reconnect” was selected as a winning initiative during the Peace Designer Training in Kosova, and will proudly represent Kosovo at the S!NERGY Assembly.
The project addresses the growing issue of excessive smartphone use among students aged 12–15 and its impact on concentration, academic performance, mental well-being, and social interaction. Through outdoor sports, creative workshops, social games, and phone-free activities, the initiative encourages healthier digital habits and stronger face-to-face communication among young people. By promoting balanced technology use and active participation in educational and social activities, the project also contributes to SDG 4 – Quality Education.
“Disconnect to Reconnect” reflects the creativity and commitment of youth in Kosovo to building healthier, more connected, and socially engaged communities
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