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.



AI, Reform, and the Western Balkans’ Digital Future

written by Sabina Selita, Albania

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a defining force of the 21st century, reshaping governance, economies, and societies worldwide. In Albania, the growing focus on AI reflects a broader commitment to digital transformation and innovation-led development.



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.



Violence against teachers

written by Lazar Uzelac, Serbia

We remember and retell pranks from school, and in them there is always that “crumb of childhood”, naivety and clumsiness of youth. But, in the case of the professor from Trstenik, it about the intention to completely humiliate this professor, to, in the literal sense, make her fall on the floor and to immediately post video of this heinous act on social networks.



Revitalization of Dobrota Lace: A Monument to Women’s Craftsmanship

written by Milica Kašćelan, Montenegro

Dobrota lace lives and breathes through hands. Hands that wait, embrace, build, and overcome the toughest battles. It endures through the hands that strive to preserve it from oblivion, from the cruelty of time, and from fleeting trends. These hands carry the burden of women across more than five centuries, creating a path where new patterns will become works of art.



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.



“Smart kids” VS old education system  

written by Sara Tanaskoska, North Macedonia

In North Macedonia, as in many other countries, there is a growing disconnect between the needs of ‘smart kids’ and the realities of the traditional education system. While students are equipped with smartphones and tablets, their classrooms often lack the technology and resources necessary to facilitate innovative learning experiences. How can we bridge this gap and create a more equitable and effective education system for all?







The psychology of the characters from the movie “We the kids from the zoo station” in relation to real life

written by Aleksandra Mijušković, Serbia

“We Children from Bahnhof Zoo” (1981) is a harrowing West German film based on the autobiographical book “Wir Kinder vom Bahnhof Zoo” by Christiane Felscherinow. The movie chronicles the real-life story of Christiane F., a teenager in 1970s Berlin who descends into drug addiction and prostitution. The psychological aspects of the characters in this film can be linked to real-life issues faced by individuals in similar circumstances.



Issues with Youth Employment in North Macedonia

written by Katerina Kamchevska, Northern Macedonia

Like in many countries in the Western Balkans, youth in North Macedonia faces the same issues related to unemployment. In general, the job market is too limited and restricted to offer opportunities for the youth, starting with the capital, Skopje, and extending to other cities where the population and economy are significantly lower.



MultiКулти Fest 2025: Celebrating International Youth Day

written by Arta Abduli Isaki, North Macedonia

On August 12, the MultiКултиYouth Center marked International Youth Day with its annual MultiКултиFest, a lively mini-festival that brings together young people, local artists, and the community to celebrate creativity, culture, and youth engagement. Now in its third consecutive year, the festival has become a key event for fostering self-expression and community spirit among youth.