On Thursday, April 9, 2026, the second stakeholders’ meeting was held as part of the pilot activity of the Maribor Youth Consultative Body, implemented under the OUT4INGOV project (Interreg Alpine Space). The meeting was dedicated to presenting the progress of the pilot process so far, exchanging views among key actors, and discussing opportunities for the long-term inclusion of youth in local and regional governance processes.
Purpose and Structure of the Meeting
The main objectives of the event were to:
- present the results of the pilot activity,
- evaluate the work completed so far,
- identify key challenges and opportunities for further development of the model.
The pilot activity is based on developing a practical model for involving young people in decision-making processes, with a particular focus on challenges related to youth mobility, employment, and quality of life. The process has taken place in multiple phases – from identifying youth needs, through co-creating solutions, to direct dialogue with institutional actors.
Presentation of the Pilot Model
Between January and April 2026, four meetings of the Youth Consultative Body were held as part of the pilot activity, based on participatory methods and active engagement of participants. The model includes:
- co-creation workshops,
- development of advocacy skills,
- direct dialogue with decision-makers,
- preparation of concrete proposals to improve policies.
This approach allows young people to better understand governance processes and strengthens their role as active co-creators of society.
Key Findings
Based on the process carried out and stakeholder discussions, the following key findings were highlighted:
- Young people show a high level of motivation and willingness to participate.
- Participatory approaches effectively promote active youth engagement.
- The combination of theoretical understanding and practical work has proven essential for the success of the model.
- Direct dialogue with institutions significantly increases the relevance and quality of proposals.
Young participants identified the following as key challenges:
- housing issues,
- access to employment,
- quality of the education system,
- mobility and public infrastructure.
Results and Achievements
Among the most notable results of the pilot activity is the preparation of initiatives to improve the participatory budget of the City Municipality of Maribor. One key proposal was to expand participation opportunities to youth with temporary residence, which was partially incorporated in subsequent procedures. In addition, young people developed:
- proposals for a greater role of youth in decision-making,
- initiatives for more inclusive participation mechanisms,
- concrete improvements to the digital tool “Our Maribor.”
Stakeholder Discussion
The discussion confirmed broad agreement on the importance of involving young people in decision-making processes. Particular points emphasized included:
- the need to formalize the participatory model (e.g., through a municipal ordinance),
- establishing a structured and continuous dialogue,
- ensuring an actual role for young people in decision-making,
- combining organized stakeholders with unorganized youth for greater representativeness.
It was also emphasized that the model must be adapted to the real capacities of young people, particularly regarding time, motivation, and scope of participation.
Significance for the City Municipality of Maribor
The pilot activity represents an important step toward more inclusive and responsive governance. For the City Municipality of Maribor, it provides:
- an opportunity to test new participation models,
- direct insight into youth needs,
- a foundation for developing systemic solutions in youth policy.
Next Steps
The next phase of the project will focus on:
- preparing proposals to institutionalize the model,
- continuing the dialogue with the City Municipality of Maribor,
- expanding best practices at national and international levels,
- strengthening youth competencies for active participation.
Conclusion
The second stakeholders’ meeting confirmed that there is a strong foundation for developing an effective model for youth involvement in decision-making processes. For long-term success, it will be crucial to ensure proper institutional support and systemic integration to enable sustainable and meaningful youth participation.