In Armenia, an UNDEF-supported initiative, led by the A.D. Sakharov Armenian Human Rights Protection Centre, is advancing the country’s commitment to participatory governance by engaging rural youth as active partners in local decision-making. In line with Article 46 of the Law on Local Self-Government, the project builds young people’s capacity for leadership and good governance in their communities.
This vision is already visible in communities like Halidzor, where youth gathered at the Community Development Centre to strengthen leadership skills and learn about local governance through the project. Among them was 15-year-old Gagik Matevosyan, the youngest participant. Inspired by his training, Gagik organized his own session at the Khot village school, reaching twelve peers. His leadership reflects the project’s core aim: helping youth see themselves as active drivers of change.
As one participant, 14-year-old Milena Martirosyan, shared: “I was impressed when Gagik said that to be a leader or make a change, you don’t have to be an adult. We can also make changes in our school or at home.” Several others expressed interest in leading their own sessions, creating a ripple effect of initiative.
Beyond individual stories, the project is establishing six active youth groups across three regions, conducting participatory assessments of community needs. Based on these assessments, actionable recommendations are being developed, and six community-driven initiatives are creating inclusive, socially vibrant spaces. By fostering leadership and teamwork through informal education and advocacy, the project is not only building skills – it is strengthening community engagement. These activities underscore the transformative power of investing in youth as partners in governance and community development.
https://www.un.org/democracyfund/news/engaging-armenian-youth-local-governance
