The Young European Ambassadors network is growing, with 97 new members ready to get active in shaping the future of the Western Balkans. The recent Call for Applications, successfully selected a new generation of passionate young people committed to promoting European values, integration, and cooperation. The Young European Ambassadors (YEA) platform is a creative communication network of future young activists from across the Western Balkans (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia).

The 2024 Call for Applications attracted a remarkable response, with 1,347 applications initiated during the month. Of these, 341 were successfully submitted by young people across the Western Balkans. 

One of the key highlights of this year's application process was the outreach campaign designed to engage young people from diverse and marginalised backgrounds. The initiative specifically targeted those from geographically isolated communities and minority groups, ensuring inclusiveness.

After an evaluation process led by the WeBalkans team, in collaboration with the Directorate-General for Neighborhood and Enlargement (DG NEAR), we are happy to welcome Young European Ambassadors from Bosnia and Herzegovina: Amina Hadzic, Alen Kubat, Emina Pasanovic, Petar Spaic, Marija Malic, Mia Selena Lerch, Vanja Gojic, Adna Mujic, Teodora Ruzic, Naida Odobasic, Emina Odobasic, Nudzejma Karajic, Kenan Fehric, Tesnim Karisik Spahic and Azra Mehmedovic.

These new members will join the existing ambassadors from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, expanding the network to 240. Together they will deepen their knowledge of EU policies, engage with local communities, and represent their peers on the European stage.

The new YEAs join at an exciting time for the Western Balkans as the region continues its path towards greater integration with the European Union. Through their work, YEAs will promote understanding, build networks, and encourage dialogue among youth from different backgrounds.

They will also focus on promotion of democratic processes of the EU, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. By strengthening ties between the Western Balkans and the EU, they will showcase the benefits of regional cooperation and integration.

The selection of this new generation of Young European Ambassadors demonstrates the European Union's commitment to investing in youth and equipping them to shape their future. As the YEAs prepare for the year ahead, the hope is to inspire even more young people across the region to engage in active citizenship, drive positive change, and support the EU’s vision for a united and prosperous future.

Congratulations to all our new YEAs. For those were not selected this time, we encourage you to join our activities and stay connected with the programme.

More information about this programme is available at this link.