Young people are an essential part of every country's social and political future. Their participation matters for democratic resilience and success. When young citizens disconnect from political processes, democratic systems weaken, public trust erodes, and the policies that emerge fail to reflect the needs of entire generations. That is why WFD supports young people around the world to participate in political processes.

Like in many countries worldwide, young people in North Macedonia often feel excluded from politics. The recent study on socio-political participation of youth in North Macedonia shows that 74% of the young people feel excluded from local and national decision-making processes. 

WFD's "Democracy Works" project directly addresses this democratic challenge by creating pathways for meaningful youth political participation. As part of the project, WFD supported the Parliamentary Volunteers Programme at the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia—a transformative six-month initiative that has connected twenty ambitious students from diverse academic backgrounds including law, political science, public relations, and economics with the nation's legislative process.

Volunteers participated in the day-to-day operations of parliament, assisting with parliamentary sessions, document preparation, administrative tasks, and conducting tours of the Assembly. Their development was further enhanced through comprehensive lectures on democratic values, parliamentary roles, and citizen participation.

Beyond building skills 

By including young citizens in parliamentary processes, the programme cultivates a new generation of democratically engaged citizens who understand how to navigate political systems and advocate for change—essential skills for strengthening democratic culture and institutions.

Donatela Pejovska, volunteer at the Parliamentary Budget Office (PBO) highlighted a particularly impactful experience: "When Macedonia's draft budget for 2025 was approved, the Parliamentary Budget Office had a short period to prepare an analysis for MPs. At the start of the volunteer programme, I lacked experience in such matters. However, with excellent management coordination and organisation, we completed the analysis in a record time. I applied my analytical and technical skills effectively for the first time."

Milana Mitovska, volunteer at the public relations division, reflected on personal growth: "I learned how to function in a formal environment, surrounded by individuals engaged in activities critical to our society."

Mutual benefits

The initiative has demonstrated clear advantages for both volunteers and the Assembly. Staff reported that volunteers helped address workforce gaps and enhanced institutional operations, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed enthusiasm to their roles.

For the volunteers, the programme delivered practical skills development in research methodology, legislative drafting, public communication, and collaborative working – competencies that will serve them throughout their careers. 

Continuing the partnership

Following this successful pilot, the Assembly and WFD have confirmed their intention to build on the programme's achievements. Future initiatives will ensure more young people have opportunities to engage with and contribute to North Macedonia's democratic processes.

The programme stands as an example of effective partnership between the UK and North Macedonia in strengthening democracy through actively supporting, and encouraging young people’s engagement in politics, and guiding them to acquire knowledge and skills.