Ljubljana hosted young trade union activists

Activities of the project “Trade Unions are IN – get involved, influence, act” continued with a three-day study visit to Slovenia. In the period from March 10 to 12, Ljubljana hosted almost 40 young trade union activists from North Macedonia, Serbia, Turkiye and Greece, as the official partners in the project, and Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro – informal partners, having “Mladi Plus” trade union as the host organization that represents a positive example of trade union action in fields of importance for young people.

In the premises of the organization, the hosts warmly welcomed all participants, who presented their work and activities through presentations and examples of good practice in continuation. Meetings were also held with the relevant partners of the trade union with the aim of presenting different models of cooperation. Later on, and after the initial contacts made during the Trade Union Academy, participants had the opportunity to exchange further their own experience in working with young trade union activists and wider youth population through the additional presentations of their countries. This was followed by an evaluation of implemented local actions held after the Trade union Academy. Brainstorming activities on various topics of importance, as well as a presentation on further activities within the project, completed the rest of the program.

Apart from the work part, participants had the opportunity to enjoy and get to know the rich cultural and historical content of the capital city of Slovenia, which is one of the hidden gems of Europe. The city’s rich history, beautiful architecture and green surroundings left an impression on all participants and made out of this visit a special memory.

Development Center for Youth as one of the partners in this project was represented by Anastasija Nenadović, who is the project coordinator for Serbia. Anastasija did not hide her enthusiasm related to the visit, but she also pointed out that the importance of participation and action of young people in the trade union field could be seen from examples of good practice, as well as from the urging  need for their more active involvement in decision-making processes.

The project “Trade Unions are IN – get involved, influence, act” is coordinated by the Union UPOZ from Skopje, and is implemented with the support of the European Commission through the ERASMUS+ program, Key Action 3 – European Youth Together.