BRAVO, CRNO, Fondacija “Izvor nade” and Vijeće Mladih Općine Ilidža in Ilidža hosted Community Forum 2, bringing together young people and community members for a dynamic and engaging discussion on local participation, democratic decision-making, and community development.
The event served as a platform for participants to explore how citizens can actively contribute to shaping the communities in which they live. Through a structured community forum simulation, attendees gained practical insight into participatory governance and the importance of involving diverse voices in local decision-making processes.
Community forums are designed to strengthen local democracy by creating opportunities for citizens, civil society organizations, representatives of institutions, and other stakeholders to come together, identify common challenges, and develop solutions through dialogue and cooperation. By simulating real-life decision-making processes, participants experienced firsthand how collective action can lead to meaningful change.
A special value of the event was the participation of Berina Gibanica, municipal councilor, who joined the discussions and exchanged views with participants on the importance of citizen engagement and cooperation between local authorities and community members. Her presence provided participants with a valuable opportunity to better understand the role of local government and the significance of active civic participation in democratic processes.
Throughout the forum, participants worked collaboratively to analyze issues affecting their communities and discuss possible approaches to addressing them. The interactive format encouraged open communication, critical thinking, and teamwork, while fostering a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and opportunities associated with active citizenship.
A key focus of Community Forum 2 was youth engagement. Young participants were encouraged to share their perspectives, express their concerns, and contribute innovative ideas for improving their local communities. Their active involvement highlighted the essential role that young people play in building inclusive, resilient, and democratic societies.
The forum also provided a valuable learning environment in which participants developed a range of practical skills. These included problem-solving, constructive dialogue, consensus-building, community organizing, and collaborative decision-making. Such competencies are essential for strengthening civic participation and promoting sustainable community development.
