OSCE supports conference on youth exchange in Montenegro as motor of regional co-operation
Young people must take the lead in dismantling barriers and promoting genuine regional reconciliation that will create a better future in their countries and the Western Balkans. This was a key conclusion of the conference Youth Exchange as Motor of Regional Co-operation, organized by Regional Youth Co-operation Office (RYCO) with the support of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro in Podgorica on 13 December 2018.
Maryse Daviet, Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, said that RYCO youth exchange projects have linked high school students across the region, promoting mutual understanding and creating conditions for positive change in society.
“RYCO enables young people to contribute in a positive way to regional co-operation. The OSCE Mission to Montenegro will continue to support RYCO activities,” said Daviet, welcoming the strong commitment of the Government of Montenegro to the RYCO initiative.
Minister of Sports Nikola Janović reiterated his government’s commitment to young people. His ministry has worked hard to establish the necessary preconditions for greater mobility, connection and co-operation amongst young people, both at the national and regional level, he said.
“In the era of digital connectivity in which we live, mobility is the best way to understand other cultures and values, acquire knowledge and experiences, and above all to expand standards and European cultural values” said Janović.
Djuro Blanuša, RYCO Secretary Genera,l said that RYCO’s vision is very clear: young people in the Western Balkans must have the opportunity to move freely, meet one another, build bridges of reconciliation and co-operation. “RYCO is here to make this possible,” he said.
“There is a need to work together to reduce inter-ethnic tensions, challenge stereotypes and prejudices, promote tolerance and mutual respect. Connecting young people through increased mobility and intercultural youth exchanges is good way to address these issues,” said Blanuša.
The conference included three discussion panels with ambassadors, Members of Parliament, representatives of RYCO, as well as organizations and schools supported by RYCO.