On June 21st, UNAA hosted the “National Political Education Survey (SKEP) Presentation Conference”. The event brought together civil society representatives, international donors, researchers, and young people to discuss strategies for promoting political education and enhancing civic engagement in Albania.
The conference featured three dynamic discussion panels, where participants explored the roles of NGOs, international institutions, media, and educational programs in fostering an informed and engaged youth. Discussions were guided by insights from the SKEP survey, which included responses from 1,400 young people aged 15 to 24. The survey revealed that while many youth prefer to address community issues through local government, a significant number remain hesitant to engage with public institutions. Knowledge about municipal governance and electoral processes is limited, and even among those who have voted, many were unsure about who represents them in local councils. Media and civil society organizations play a critical role, yet access to accurate information remains a challenge.
The conference also highlighted the reasons behind low youth participation in voting, including lack of interest, distrust in candidates, and limited understanding of electoral programs. Participants reflected on the importance of practical civic education, transparency in electoral processes, and more accessible communication from both institutions and civil society to empower young people.
The event concluded with actionable recommendations to strengthen political education and civic engagement in Albania, emphasizing the need to update curricula, improve information channels, and create inclusive platforms for youth participation.
The SKEP conference marked a significant step forward in empowering Albanian youth, promoting civic knowledge, and fostering a generation of informed and active citizens ready to shape the democratic future of the country.