Success and problems of Estonian youth

written by Pavel Smulski, Ruta Pels and Denis Poljakov, Estonia

Estonia is the leading education nation in Europe. Best in PISA tests, country became a role model for digital education and remote learning, but salaries are lower than in Western Europe. The only promising and well paid sectors are management and IT. Not all specialists can find work in these areas…



Enlargement fatigue and Democratic Backsliding in the Balkans

written by Gevin Sherko, Albania

In his recent speech at a meeting with Albanian diaspora in Milano, Italy, the Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama did not hesitate at throwing shades at the European Union regarding the prospects of Albania joining the European Union. Rama attributed the lack of progress to the “slow Brussels bureaucracy” which is moving with “turtle-like steps”.… Continue reading Enlargement fatigue and Democratic Backsliding in the Balkans



Albania’s Historic Steps Towards EU Membership

written by Regis Shyti, Albania

Albania has been moving steadily along the path toward European Union membership, a journey marked by both historic milestones and persistent challenges. After decades of reform and adaptation, the European Commission has opened all chapters of the accession negotiations, signaling that Albania is now closer than ever to joining the European family.



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.





How young people are ditching the office for a life of travel

written by Anja Matić, Croatia

Work has always been a central part of human life. On the one hand, it provides economic security, and on the other, it can offer a sense of purpose and meaning—or at least it should. For some, work is a fulfilling and meaningful daily, weekly and overall human experience. But for the rest, work has become a source of alienation, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and boredom.



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.



Sorting Facts from Fiction – Textbook and Curriculum

INFO, Serbia

As part of the MEDActive Youth: Informing the Balkans project, a textbook and curriculum on news literacy titled “Sorting Facts from Fiction: Critical Thinking vs. Information Disorder and Propaganda” have been developed. These publications represent a valuable resource – a comprehensive teaching material pack – for educating youth about news literacy and critical thinking. The… Continue reading Sorting Facts from Fiction – Textbook and Curriculum





“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?