The capital city of Podgorica was officially declared the European Youth Capital 2028 this evening. This prestigious title is one of the most significant European recognitions in the field of youth policies, awarded to cities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to young people, their development, participation, and the creation of inclusive urban policies.

The European Youth Capital is an annual title awarded by the European Youth Forum, aimed at enabling young people to actively shape life in their city through innovative programs, cultural events, community development, and new models of participation. By winning the title for 2028, Podgorica joins a network of European cities that recognize young people as key drivers of social change.

In the final stage of the competition, Podgorica competed against strong European candidates: the city of Paralimni from Cyprus, Pernik from Bulgaria, Leeuwarden from the Netherlands, and Chișinău from Moldova.

“This title is a recognition of our city’s development strategy, which sees its young people as a driving force. Podgorica has proven that it has the vision, energy, and capacity to become a regional center of youth, innovation, and creativity. This success belongs to all young people who believed in our city and actively contributed to its development,” said Podgorica’s mayor, Prof. Dr. Saša Mujović.

“I am proud that Podgorica has once again shown that it is boldly moving toward European standards. This title is an important step forward and confirmation that our city is ready to offer young people more space, more opportunities, and more chances to shape the community. I would like to thank all partners and participants who contributed to this great success,” stated the President of the Capital City Assembly, Dr. Jelena Borovinić Bojović.

The Capital City of Podgorica will soon present a detailed plan of activities and projects that will be implemented during 2028, inviting all young people to take part in further shaping the European Youth Capital program.