Deadline: 05-Jun-2026
The United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) has announced applications for the 8th United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo, which will take place on 17–18 June 2026 in Istog under the theme “Youth in the Field.” The Assembly will bring together young people from across the Western Balkans to discuss youth leadership, innovation, inclusion, mental health, and community engagement while promoting regional cooperation and dialogue.
About the United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo
The United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo is a regional platform that encourages young people to actively contribute to social development, innovation, and community-building initiatives. The 2026 edition places a strong emphasis on practical action and the real-life contributions of young leaders within their communities rather than theoretical discussions.
The Assembly seeks to create opportunities for young people to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and develop collaborative solutions to challenges facing communities across the Western Balkans.
Theme: Youth in the Field
The theme “Youth in the Field” highlights the importance of grassroots engagement and practical youth action. It focuses on how young people can contribute to social justice, sustainability, innovation, and regional cooperation through direct involvement in their communities.
The program is structured around two key pillars:
- Voices from the Field – showcasing experiences, perspectives, and initiatives led by young people.
- Action in the Field – promoting collaboration and practical solutions that can create positive change within local communities.
Key Focus Areas
Youth-Led Governance
This theme explores the role of young people in decision-making processes and civic participation. Discussions will focus on:
- Youth leadership and representation
- Civic engagement and participation
- Rural and urban youth involvement
- Community-driven governance initiatives
Economic Empowerment and Innovation
Participants will examine how innovation can support sustainable development and economic opportunities for young people.
Key topics include:
- Start-ups and entrepreneurship
- Innovation ecosystems
- Sustainable economic growth
- Ecotourism and community development
- Youth-led solutions to local challenges
Inclusion and Accessibility
The Assembly aims to promote equal participation and opportunities for all young people.
Areas of discussion include:
- Physical accessibility
- Information accessibility
- Safe and inclusive spaces
- Equal participation in community life
- Removing barriers to youth engagement
Well-Being and Mental Health
Mental health and well-being are central themes of the 2026 Assembly.
Topics include:
- Contemporary mental health challenges
- Youth well-being and resilience
- Digital influences on mental health
- The role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern society
- Creating supportive environments for young people
Eligibility Criteria
The opportunity is open to young people aged 15–29 years from:
- Kosovo
- Albania
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Serbia
Eligible participants may include:
- Activists
- Volunteers
- Students
- Early-career professionals
- Youth leaders
- Community advocates
Applicants should have a working knowledge of at least one Balkan language. English language skills are considered beneficial but are not mandatory.
Previous experience in volunteering or youth networking is viewed as an advantage, but it is not required for participation.
Participant Benefits
Selected regional participants will receive:
- Accommodation during the program
- Meals throughout the event
- Transportation support
Regional participants will attend the full program from 16–18 June 2026 in Istog.
Participants from Kosovo will receive:
- Organized transportation from major cities
- Meals during both Assembly days
Why This Assembly Matters
The United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo serves as an important platform for strengthening regional cooperation among young people in the Western Balkans. It provides opportunities for participants to share experiences, learn from peers, and contribute to discussions on issues affecting their communities.
The Assembly helps participants:
- Build regional networks and partnerships
- Exchange ideas and best practices
- Develop leadership and communication skills
- Promote social justice and sustainability
- Engage in meaningful regional dialogue
- Collaborate on solutions to common challenges
By focusing on practical community engagement, the Assembly encourages young people to become active contributors to positive social change.
How Participation Works
Interested young people must submit an application through the Assembly’s official selection process.
Selected participants will have the opportunity to:
- Attend discussions and thematic sessions
- Participate in collaborative activities
- Engage with peers from across the Western Balkans
- Share local experiences and initiatives
- Contribute ideas and solutions related to the Assembly’s focus areas
The program is designed to encourage dialogue, networking, and cooperation among young leaders from different communities and backgrounds.
Organizers
The Assembly is organized by the United Nations Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK) and the United Youth Task Force in cooperation with:
- United Nations agencies
- RYCO
- Kosovo institutions
- Civil society organizations
- Innovation centers
The partnership brings together a broad network of organizations committed to youth engagement and regional cooperation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will the Assembly take place?
The Assembly will be held on 17–18 June 2026 in Istog, Kosovo. Regional participants will participate from 16–18 June 2026. - Who can apply?
Young people aged 15–29 from Kosovo, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia are eligible. - Is previous volunteering experience required?
No. Previous volunteering and youth networking experience is considered an advantage but is not mandatory. - Is English language proficiency required?
No. Applicants should have a working knowledge of at least one Balkan language. English is beneficial but not required. - What costs are covered?
Regional participants receive accommodation, meals, and transportation support. Participants from Kosovo receive organized transportation and meals. - What topics will be discussed during the Assembly?
Discussions will focus on youth-led governance, economic empowerment, innovation, inclusion, accessibility, well-being, mental health, and Artificial Intelligence. - Who organizes the event?
The Assembly is organized by UNMIK and the United Youth Task Force in partnership with UN agencies, RYCO, Kosovo institutions, civil society organizations, and innovation centers.
Conclusion
The 8th United Nations Youth Assembly in Kosovo 2026 offers young people across the Western Balkans a unique opportunity to engage in regional dialogue, strengthen leadership skills, and contribute to community-driven solutions. Through its focus on governance, innovation, inclusion, and well-being, the Assembly aims to empower young leaders to create meaningful impact within their communities and across the region.
For more information, visit United Nations Mission in Kosovo.