A New Era for Media Freedom: Why the European Media Freedom Act Matters to Young People

written by Nikola Srećković,, Serbia

On August 8, 2025, the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) officially comes into force, introducing the first-ever comprehensive EU-level legislation dedicated to protecting media freedom, pluralism, and the independence of journalists. Although it primarily applies to EU member states, its influence will likely extend across Europe, especially in neighboring regions.



Mental health of young people in the digital age: challenges and initiatives

written by Stjepan Benkus, Croatia

Screens are everywhere. They rest in pockets, glow on desks, illuminate bedrooms, and quietly shape how young people think, feel, and connect. For many adolescents and young adults, digital spaces are no longer separate from “real life”, they are simply life itself.



The (negative) impact of social media on young people in Serbia

written by Lenka Nedeljkov Srbinoski, Romina Begaj, Serbia

Social media’s impact on mental health among Serbian youth is concerning. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat dominate their daily lives, and often promote some unattainable beauty standards and fostering feelings of inadequacy. These platforms serve as spaces where young people compare themselves incessantly to influencers and peers, which can cause anxiety and depression by its users.





Navigating the Mental Health Landscape for Youth in North Macedonia:
Challenges and Pathways to Support

written by CID, North Macedonia

In North Macedonia, the landscape of mental health among young people reflects a dynamic interplay of societal, economic, and individual factors. While the country boasts cultural richness and historical significance, the challenges surrounding youth mental health persist, demanding comprehensive attention and proactive measures to support the well-being of its younger generation.



Media misinformation and disinformation

written by Marina Medhat, Egypt

Media misinformation and disinformation is a major worldwide problem, as media plays a big role everyday in our lives. Everyone uses media for different purposes. In today’s society, it’s hard to tell what’s true and what’s fake!, and we have seen more and more people fall victim to media – induced confusion, believing all kinds of fake stories which leads to unnecessary drama.





Hair Color Stereotypes

written by Amina Vejselovic, Bosnia and Herzegovina

“I am not a person – I am a long list of assumptions.” An Unknown Source Have you ever noticed how people often make snap judgments based on hair color? Hair color generalizations are inescapable in society, forming recognitions and affecting how people are treated both actually and professionally.



Pro-Family Outcry: Reproductive and Gay Rights Draft Policies Spark Debate in Albania

written by LINDIANA AGOLLI, Albania

In May and June 2024, The Albanian Pro Family and Life Coalition led a campaign opposing a draft policy concerning reproductive rights. Two primary concerns raised by the coalition were the provision allowing abortions for girls over 16 without parental consent and the proposed legalization of surrogacy. Subsequently, on May 19th, the municipality of Tirana… Continue reading Pro-Family Outcry: Reproductive and Gay Rights Draft Policies Spark Debate in Albania



Climate change’s role in shaping Macedonian agriculture

written by Teodora Stoevska, North Macedonia

The agriculture is a significant and one of the most important economic sectors in Macedonia. Some statistics show that agriculture contributes approximately 16 percent to the total GDP of the country, but the real share is possibly even higher, because these data are only a part of the value of the agricultural production of the small who sell their products themselves.