PANEL DISCUSSION: YOUTH VOICE AND ACTIVISM – LOCAL AND EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE

As part of the conference “Youth Voice – The Power of a Generation,” a panel discussion was held, opening important conversations about the role of young people in society, activism, institutions, education, and European values.

Ksenija Borilović from the Capital City Youth Office emphasized that institutions must keep pace with the times and that it is important to involve social media influencers.

As she pointed out, their contribution can help present more clearly what is happening in the city and what activities institutions are implementing for young people.

Zerina Kardović, Vice President of the Student Parliament of the University of Montenegro, highlighted the importance of education abroad, as well as the equally important return of young people to Montenegro.

According to her, students who return bring new knowledge and energy, and without empowering young people to lead the country, we risk being left without quality leadership.

Lana Šahbaz, a responsible content creator, warned about the dual nature of social media.

She emphasized that social networks can be a powerful tool for positive change, but if we are not careful, they can become a “cage” that limits us.

Vladimir Perazić, Secretary General of the Youth Network, stressed that key initiatives, such as the European Youth Capital, were initiated and led precisely by young people.

As he stated, all changes begin with young people, and their engagement is the foundation of a society that moves forward.

Aldo Vlahovljak, a Young European Ambassador, emphasized that Podgorica is part of the European cultural space, regardless of its formal status in the EU.

According to him, European values become real only when they are translated into the everyday lives of citizens—otherwise, they remain mere phrases.

The panel discussion was moderated by Nađa Stojanović, who guided the conversation toward concrete messages and the lived experiences of young people.

🤍 The project “Youth Voice – The Power of a Generation” is supported by the Ministry of Sports and Youth of Montenegro. @ministarstvosportaimladihcg

Because young people are not the future — they are the present.