Youth on the Path to the EU

A large number of young people from Bosnia and Herzegovina want to leave our country either permanently or temporarily. What if youth could have their voices heard in the EU without leaving BiH? What if we told you we need your ideas about Bosnia and Herzegovina’s path to the EU? This is your chance!

The European Union in Bosnia and Herzegovina is inviting young politicians and representatives of civil society organizations to a series of events where they will have the opportunity to learn about BiH's path to the European Union, and become part of a team that will compete to win a trip to Brussels.

Be the part of a youthful force that contributes to decision making!

Be the generation that brings change!

Be GENCHANGE!

During three three-day events, a group of young people will learn about Bosnia and Herzegovina's current steps on the road to the EU, gain a deeper understanding of the role of young people in decision-making processes, and share ideas on how young politicians and activists could get involved in EU integration processes in BiH.  After three events, the young people will participate in a Youth Leadership conference and a competition to win a trip to Brussels.

The EUSR and the Institute will evaluate the applications and select the best candidates according to the specified criteria. The Institute will sign contracts with all participants, defining the terms of their participation. 

What is GENCHANGE: youth on the path to the EU

GENCHNANGE: youth on the road to the EU is a unique non-formal training program for young politicians and activists aged 18 to 30, from a variety of political parties, civil society organizations and local communities.

The program will offer young people the knowledge and skills they need to be more effective politicians, especially when it comes to EU integration. During the training, they will learn the theory and practice of approaches to politics and activism that are different, more innovative and aligned with European values. They will have a chance to contribute ideas to addressing youth issues.

Why GENCHANGE: youth on the path to the EU?

Building the competencies of young politicians and activists is crucial for ensuring they have a better grasp of Bosnia and Herzegovina's EU agenda and an awareness of the important role that young people play. The active involvement of young people is of crucial importance not only in the EU integration process, but also in driving the socio-economic development of the country.

Schedule of planned modules:

• Module I – 21-23 March 2024
• Module II – 4-6 April 2024
• Module III - 17-19 April 2024
• Youth Leadership Conference 9-12 May 2024
• Competition from May to August 2024
• The trip is planned for August 2024.

NOTE: The module schedule is not final, and EUSR and the Institute reserve the right to make changes.

The modules will run from 09:00 to 18:00 with the exception of the first and last day, to accommodate the arrival and departure of participants.

Application criteria

• Applicants must be aged between 18 and 30.
• Fluent speaker of English.
• Member of a political party registered in BiH.
• Activist of a civil society organization.
• Citizen of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Has not been previously convicted and is not undergoing criminal proceedings.
• All required documentation must be submitted.

Participants’ obligations

• Attend all three 3-day modules and all the planned program activities.
• Maintain a strong work ethic and respect the rights of other participants.
• Selected participants cannot delegate their tasks or obligation to attend the modules to another person.

Selected participants will be provided with accommodation, meals and work materials. Travel expenses for the duration of the module will also be covered.

During the program, the participants will be graded on activity , attendance, creativity, and other criteria. The most successful participants will be given the opportunity to travel to Brussels.

Applicants will be contacted if additional documents or clarifications are necessary. References provided in the application will be contacted.  

HOW DO I APPLY?

Take at least 20 minutes, think about yourself and the EU, and then fill out the application form.

The deadline for applying is Tuesday, March 5, 23:59.Applications are submitted exclusively through the online form, in English, which you can access HERE. If you have questions, email [email protected]  or call +387 33 778 765.

Incomplete applications and applications submitted after the deadline will not be taken into consideration.