Youth Discussion Forum with the Ambassador of Netherlands in Albania, H. E. Mrs. Dewi van de Weerd

On June 9, 2016 in framework of Europe Day activities, EMA organised a Youth Discussion Forum with the participation of the Ambassador of Netherlands in Albania, H.E.Mrs. Dewi van de Weerd, as the key speaker.

EMA Project Coordinator of Europe Day 2016, Ms. Mona Xhexhaj during her welcome remarks emphasised the aim to bring Europe closer to Albanian youngsters, communicate pro-European messages especially in the times of migrants ‘crisis, and foster debate and reflection to the young generation. In the name of the organisation, she expressed the gratitude to the Dutch Embassy, as a foreign representation in Albania that has given the most support in innovative and inclusive project targeting the young generation. Before opening discussion, Ms. Xhexhaj presented one of the video reportages prepared by EMA team, in which interviewed youngsters gave their opinions and perceptions about concerning issues such as asylum, latest crisis on EU issues, their views on EU citizenship, their involvement in EU decision-making etc.

During her speech, H.E.Mrs. Dewi van de Weerd explained the focus of the Dutch Embassy on establishing more contact with citizens, as a rhetoric during Dutch Presidency of Council of European Union. For that purpose, she mentioned many events and activities organized in Albania for students, entrepreneurs, civil society to raise awareness on the importance of Innovation, Job possibilities, Open Data government etc. She elaborated further on Studies, trainings and internship possibilities offered by Dutch Government for Albanian students. Also, considering the latest developments in Europe, a topic of interest to tackle upon was the migration policies and Albanian asylum seekers in Netherlands.

The participants were representatives from youth organizations, student unions, ELSA law association etc. They raised questions concerning many issues in Albania seen from Dutch lenses, such as : i) Albania EU negotiation process,- next important steps, ii) Justice reform- the vetting process iii) Cooperation amongst universities about students mobility and exchange programs through Erasmus +, Salto Youth, Jean Monnet etc.