Across Ferizaj, Prishtina, and Mamushe, young people came together to celebrate International Youth Day 2025, showcasing their creativity, energy, and commitment to a more inclusive and peaceful future. This year’s celebrations emphasized the important role of youth in advancing Youth, Peace & Security (YPS) and Women, Peace & Security (WPS) agendas, highlighting how young voices are vital drivers of positive change in their communities.

The day was filled with vibrant activities designed to engage and inspire. Through Youth Footsteps, participants expressed their hopes and aspirations for a Kosovo where equality, trust, and collaboration guide daily life. Walls and public spaces came alive with quotes and messages from young people, reflecting their commitment to promoting peace, understanding, and inclusive participation in both local and national decision-making.

Events spanned large public squares as well as smaller community spaces, demonstrating that youth engagement is not limited to urban centers. In Ferizaj, groups of young people led discussions on the role of youth in fostering dialogue and mutual understanding across diverse communities. “We are grateful to the organizers and hope such events will be held more often, as young people want to be as involved as possible in decision-making. I also hope they serve as a call for greater participation in volunteer activities.” said Aolta Bajrami from Ferizaj.

In Prishtina, the focus was on highlighting the intersection of gender equality and peacebuilding, with young women sharing their experiences and insights on strengthening the Women, Peace & Security agenda. Meanwhile, in Mamushe, youth gathered to discuss how trust and cooperation can be nurtured at the local level, encouraging peers to actively participate in community initiatives. “Thanks to this event, we had a lot of fun while also gaining valuable knowledge. It was a truly meaningful experience, and I believe activities like this will help us grow even more,” reflected Tuana Şala (Shala) from Mamushe.

The celebrations were organized by young Fellows and UN Volunteers (UNVs) as part of the “Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust” project, jointly implemented by UNFPA Kosovo and UNDP Kosovo with the support of the UN Peacebuilding Fund. The initiative underscores the essential role that young people play in shaping a society that is inclusive, equitable, and resilient. By giving youth a platform to voice their ideas, the project helps translate their energy and creativity into tangible contributions to peacebuilding and social cohesion.

International Youth Day 2025 was not just a day of celebration—it was a call to action, reminding everyone that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also active agents of change today. Through their participation, dialogue, and advocacy, youth across Kosovo are proving that they have the vision, determination, and creativity to build communities grounded in trust, equality, and peace.
This year’s events reinforced a simple but powerful message: when young people are empowered, listened to, and included, they can pave the way toward a stronger, more inclusive society.