The International Youth Center has launched an initiative to encourage civic engagement and familiarize young people with the work of local government.

Tuesday, 06 October 2026

The International Youth Center is launching the initiative "Youth Municipal Council – Ruse: Participation, Debate, and Decision-Making," aimed at fostering active civic engagement among young people and providing them with a firsthand look at local government processes. The initiative is open to 51 young people aged 15 to 29 who wish to learn more about the work of local authorities.

Through four workshops and a final simulation of a Ruse Municipal Council meeting, participants will have the opportunity to develop skills in teamwork, public speaking, articulating positions, and engaging in discussions. They will address topics relevant to youth life and the city's development, including youth spaces, culture and sports, volunteering, environmental protection, and civic participation.

Meetings with local government representatives and experts are also planned; these sessions will cover the practical aspects of decision-making processes and opportunities for citizen involvement.

The initiative will culminate in a simulation of a Municipal Council meeting. Participants will assume the roles of municipal councilors, present proposals, engage in debates, and vote on decisions regarding the topics they have addressed.

The initiative is open to young people interested in civic participation; no prior experience in local government is required. Key requirements include a desire to participate, an interest in the development of Ruse, and a willingness to work in a team. Those interested in participating can fill out the application form by October 15. Further information is available via email at ruseyouthic@ruse-bg.eu. Following the application period, a selection process will take place, and successful candidates will be notified accordingly.

The initiative is implemented by the International Youth Center – Ruse and the Municipality of Ruse under a grant agreement for Project No. 021/2026, "Youth in Action," funded by the Ministry of Youth and Sports' Program for Financing Youth Centers in the Republic of Bulgaria (2026–2028).

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