Young Researchers of Serbia representative, Ms. Tijana Ljubenović, participated in the panel “Youth Leading the Green Transition: Shaping a Sustainable and Stable Region”, held as part of the Western Balkans Youth Forum 2026, in Budva. Alongside Young Researchers of Serbia, the panel featured Ms. Adea Kondirolli, Project Manager at Open Society Foundations Western Balkans; Mr. Emil Balavac, Minister of Trade, Tourism and Environmental Protection of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina; and Ms. Franceska Korance, EIT Community Officer, Albania. The discussion was moderated by Ms. Teodora Stolevska, Head of Programs at the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO). Organized by the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) and Open Society Foundations Western Balkans, the panel brought together representatives of institutions, civil society organizations, and international initiatives to exchange experiences and discuss how young people can move from environmental activism to having a meaningful influence on decision-making and public policy development.
Speaking from the perspective of Young Researchers of Serbia, Ms. Tijana Ljubenović highlighted that young people today are far more aware of climate and environmental challenges than they were a decade ago, yet constant exposure to information about the climate crisis often leads to feelings of eco-anxiety and helplessness. As a response to these challenges, Young Researchers of Serbia has spent the past five decades encouraging young people to transform their knowledge and concerns into concrete action. Through the “Get Involved” platform, the organization supports young people in identifying problems within their local communities and developing initiatives that address them, while providing mentorship throughout the entire process – from the initial idea to the implementation of activities. At the same time, through educational programs, environmental and climate actions, volunteering, international exchanges, and volunteer camps, Young Researchers of Serbia brings together young people who share common values and interests, connecting local challenges with global processes and encouraging them to become part of a broader sustainability movement. “We keep volunteers motivated by ensuring that they are not only witnesses to problems, but also part of the solution.” emphasized Ms. Ljubenović.
The panel highlighted that a just green transition in the Western Balkans is not only about replacing coal with renewable energy sources, but also about transforming economies, communities, and institutions in a way that is environmentally sustainable, socially just, and democratically accountable. During the discussion, participants particularly emphasized the need for a coordinated regional approach to green industrial policies, given the Western Balkans’ increasing alignment with European climate policies and market standards. Panelists stressed that the green transition is not only an environmental priority, but also an opportunity to strengthen economic competitiveness, create new jobs, improve education systems, and advance social justice.
The session concluded with a strong message that the Western Balkans does not lack young people willing to actively advocate for environmental protection and sustainable development. What is needed are stronger mechanisms for involving youth in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are included from the very beginning when policies and measures shaping the region’s future are being designed. Only through such an approach can more sustainable, just, and resilient societies be built for future generations.
