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As ethnic divisions ease in the Balkans, political parties across the spectrum are finding the need for new approaches that focus on thoughtful policy debate rather than personality and ethnicity. Young leaders in particular will play an important role in these changes.
In partnership with the VMRO-Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE), NDI co-hosted a meeting Feb. 5-7 of 35 young leaders from center-right Balkan political parties. At the meeting in Skopje, Macedonia, participants focused on how to attract youth to conservative values in the 21st century as well as how to tackle a wide range of issues, including those not traditionally seen as conservative.
Partner Spotlight
With the Croatian People’s Party (HNS) serving as host, NDI brought some 25 representatives of Balkan Liberal political parties to the Croatian capital, Zagreb, for two days of discussion about advocacy of Liberal views on Balkans issues at the European level.
In-Country Perspectives
The largest ethnic minority in Central and Eastern Europe, Roma continue to face discrimination and marginalization due to poverty, social ills and, in many cases, physical isolation. They are significantly underrepresented in mainstream political parties, hold few elected offices and have been unable to use political channels to solve many economic and social problems that affect their communities. NDI has been working with local candidates and political parties throughout the region in an effort to help Roma secure more equal political representation at all levels of government.
Regional Youth Tolerance
Inter-ethnic relations throughout Kosovo and in southern Serbia are characterized by mistrust and segregation. Without direct connections, mistrust grows and grievances self-perpetuate. The declaration of independence in Kosovo has initiated a new chapter in inter-ethnic relations, but the age-old challenge of connecting ethnic groups who mistrust each other around issues of shared concern remains the same.
Young people of different ethnicities grow up isolated from each other. Their isolation feeds extremism that can prevent discourse and moderation. Conversely, crossing ethnic lines can motivate young people to undertake initiatives that alter attitudes and bring positive change.
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