E-training on Public Procurement for Innovation Research

The 'Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust' project, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) and co-implemented by UN Women, was established with the aim of developing youth-led research to explore the connections between gender equality and social cohesion challenges in the Balkan region of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo [1], North Macedonia and Serbia.

More details

In direct collaboration with the UN Women project coordinator and the representative in Albania, Lattanzio KIBS is responsible for several activities, including:

• Context analysis and study of existing literature, particularly on the connections between gender equality and social cohesion issues in the Balkan region
• Development of a detailed work plan and timetable of activities
• Study on potential questions to be explored during the research phases, and identification of a gender-balanced team to govern the research phases and interaction with other young researchers and networks in the region
• Organization and management of a Regional Online Consultation (March) with more than 50 participants, with active involvement of youth in designing the research and leading the entire discussion on gender equality, human rights, and social cohesion
• Organizing and running five in-person National Consultations (April-May) in Tirana, Sarajevo, Belgrade, Pristina [1] and Skopje, in the form of a discussion talk with 133 young people in five countries, with each young researcher leading a discussion group in his or her area to share views and perspectives on gender equality, human rights and reconciliation in a safe space, as well as challenges and solutions for a future based on mutual respect, trust and gender equality in the region
• Implementation of an online survey (May) targeting young people to further explore the connections between gender equality and social cohesion, preparatory to writing an analytical report on the findings
• Production of a Regional Research Paper, from the collected and analyzed material, on the trends highlighted from the perspective of the region's youth
• Organizing peer review, composed of young researchers and academic and media networks, to disseminate preliminary research findings
• Preparing the necessary documentation and final output, in English and local languages, for the closing presentation

Project Impact

In the Western Balkan region, social cohesion and gender equality are among the challenges still present today, along with divisive narratives and various forms of discrimination.

The study activity and dissemination of results with the support of Lattanzio KIBS contributes to strengthening intercultural dialogue by leveraging youth participation to promote greater understanding and respect for diversity among the regions of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo [1], North Macedonia and Serbia.

The project actively contributes to the achievement of the goals of the 2030 Agenda, in particular, with the promotion of gender equality (SDG 5), social cohesion to encourage quality education (SDG 4), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), reduction of inequality (SDG10), and peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16).

[1] All references to Kosovo should be understood in the context of Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999).