Within the framework of the “SD Platform Armenia” project, “We” Youth NGO of Lori Region developed a comprehensive Policy Brief summarizing the outcomes of a nationwide conference with over 80 active youth, utilizing the World Café methodology to map legal, social, and political barriers.
Key Identified Challenges:
- Gaps in Civic & Electoral Literacy: Lack of deep understanding regarding voting and civic rights as primary mechanisms for governance participation.
- Labor Exploitation & Vulnerability: Information vacuum regarding labor contracts, alongside limited access to labor rights protection mechanisms in regional communities.
- Gender Stereotypes & Social Barriers: Persistent invisible barriers for young women in the labor market and local leadership.
- Community Isolation & Civic Apathy: Disconnect between youth and local self-government bodies regarding budget processes and local development programs.
- Toxic Online Environments & Hate Speech: Negative impact of hate speech on youth self-expression and public engagement.
Proposed Strategic Solutions:
- Civic Awareness: Digital educational tools and interactive formats to foster civic engagement.
- Labor Rights & Growth: Establishing an annual “Labor Rights Week,” online legal assistance hubs, and practical skill-building workshops.
- Gender Equality & Inclusion: Targeted training for educators and peer-to-peer mentoring initiatives.
- Community Development: Intergenerational dialogue (“Conversations with Elders”), micro-grants for local youth initiatives, and support networks for regional students.
- Countering Hate Speech: Positive parenting education and leveraging street art/culture for social advocacy.
