A delegation from the Capital City of Podgorica visited Brussels to present its candidacy for the title of European Youth Capital 2028, where a panel discussion titled “Youth rights and participation” was held as part of the official program. At the panel, Danilo Vučinić, Advisor in the Youth Office, spoke on behalf of the Capital City, presenting Podgorica’s strategic approach to developing inclusive and sustainable youth policies.

Vučinić emphasized that youth participation in policy-making is a fundamental prerequisite for building strong and democratic communities. He highlighted that Podgorica, through the Youth Office, the Youth Council, and Youth Clubs, provides mechanisms that allow young people to be directly involved in decision-making processes and in creating solutions that impact their position and development.

He particularly underlined the importance of partnership with young people, relying on a culture of dialogue, trust, and consistent application of European standards, with the aim of building a society that actively recognizes the potential and creativity of younger generations. As he noted, key changes begin at the local level, where youth initiatives can grow into powerful movements at the national and European levels.

The panel concluded with an inspiring message addressed to young people:
“You are the ones who shape the city; you are the ones who lead society toward prosperity. Let us build together a better society in which young people are the driving force.”

The Capital City’s delegation included Mayor Prof. Dr. Saša Mujović, President of the Capital City Assembly Dr. Jelena Borovinić Bojović, Secretary of the Secretariat for Social Care Stefan Vešović, Head of the Mayor’s Office Vesna Brajović, Youth Office Advisor Danilo Vučinić, and Secretary General of the Youth Network of Montenegro Vladimir Perazić.

Podgorica’s candidacy for the title of European Youth Capital 2028 was successfully presented in Brussels, and the results will be announced on November 28, 2025.