2019/Bulgarian Group about Youth and Peace
Interview of the Bulgarian Group after the Training Course in Armenia "Youth and Peace" 2019
WHY YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE A ROLL TO PLAY IN PROMOTING PEACEBUILDING?
Georgi Kuzmanov: Youth have the big interest to build their future based on peace and respect priciples. This will help to join affords to live in peace for all. Moreover, face with challenges: environmental safe, war conflicts, energy efficiency, etc.
Alina Popowa: As youth is progressive part of the population, they have less stereotypes and can learn new things actively. Communicate peacebuilding approach to the different groups of youth. Educate about how to prevent conflicts not only personal, but also community and national level.
HOW CAN YOUTH PROMOTE PEACE AND PREVENT CONFLICTS IN THEIR COMMUNITY?
Alina Popowa: To be a proactive in community life. To take part in dialog events at the community level about the Peace. Also, to participate in political life of the community in order to represent youth in local policy.
Georgi Kuzmanov: Create civil society organization aimed to solve youth problems and needs at the community level. Became a actors of change throught participation in community political life. Implement of international good experience in the field of youth sector.
WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE AS PEACEBUILDERS IN THEIR COMMUNITY AND AT EU LEVEL? PLEASE GIVE SOME RECOMMENDATIONS FOR LOCAL AND EUROPEAN POLICY MAKERS.
Alina Popowa: Barriers from adult people side about the lack of capacity among youth to provide changes. Low level of participation in community life and EU. Small part of youth able to analyze and critically thinks about the facts.
Making political decisions in the field of youth based on youth needs. Support youth initiatives.
Georgi Kuzmanov: Youth at all levels facing with low level of motivation, self – management, and capacity to manage initiatives at different levels.
Policy makers should rise capacity on study youth needs, and provide support for youth initiatives.